Our year 13 Design learners were invited to Overbury's Charlotte Street site for an informative breakfast and a masterclass on Design thinking and Design Theory. The session covered various job roles within the company and included an tour of the active construction site.
Overbury, a prominent UK fit-out company specialising in office spaces nationwide, facilitated talks by key personnel. Nicola, Head of Design, Rugile, Assistant Design Manager, Nick, Sustainability Design Manager, and Daniel, Design Manager, shared their diverse career pathways.
Each speaker not only shared a comprehensive overview of their respective roles but also delved into the specific skills crucial for success in their positions. They outlined daily responsibilities while emphasizing the importance of skills such as sketching, proficiency in CAD, and the art of delivering impactful presentations using PowerPoint. These insights directly correlated with the skills currently being developed by our learners, bridging the gap between their academic pursuits and real-world applications in the design industry.
They also explained what office fit-out is, breaking down the process of designing and fitting workspaces. The speakers highlighted how each role contributes to a successful office fit-out. The session covered different career paths, including apprenticeships and post-sixth form options in construction, commercial sectors, and design. It was a practical and informative session that helped learners see the connection between their studies and real-world jobs.
The highlight of the day was an illuminating tour of the construction site, providing learners with a firsthand look at the intricacies of an ongoing project. Learners had the opportunity to ask questions about the site and careers throughout and following the tour.
Our sincere thanks to Overbury for warmly welcoming our learners, offering a comprehensive overview of the company, and showcasing the practical application of their studies in an industry context. This trip offered learners the opportunity to peek behind the curtain of an active construction site, motivating them by illustrating the real-world impact of their educational journey.