Construction Learners Gain Real-World Insight on Newcastle Site Visit

Construction learners had their first opportunity to visit an active building site in the heart of Newcastle, offering a valuable glimpse into the realities of the industry beyond the classroom.
The visit to VolkerLaser was made possible thanks to Sydnie, Employer Engagement Officer who established strong links with the company currently working on the Central Motorway project.
Located in a busy section of the city, the site is part of an ongoing development that has been running for several months.
Before arriving, learners ensured they were equipped with the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). While most came prepared, hard hats were provided on-site—though assembling them
proved more challenging than expected! After a few adjustments (and a bit of teamwork), everyone was safely geared up and ready to begin.
The group was welcomed by Ben, the project manager, who delivered an engaging presentation outlining the company’s background, future plans, and the structure of the site team. He also shared his own career journey, giving learners a clear idea of the pathways available within the construction industry. His explanation of the project highlighted the importance of maintaining the concrete structure of the Central Motorway, helping learners understand the real-world impact of such work.
Following the briefing, learners were taken onto the site itself. They crossed the motorway to access the underside of the structure, where Ben demonstrated how the repairs were being carried out and explained the technical processes involved. The tour continued to another section of the site, where learners navigated an elevated platform to get a close-up view of the repair work—an experience many found particularly interesting.
Overall, the visit was a great success, giving learners a hands-on understanding of construction work and inspiring many to think more deeply about their future careers in the industry.
