A construction firm has been giving young people an insight into working in the sector.
Since May, Cubby Construction Ltd, in Carlisle, has provided work experience to local young people as part of a long-term partnership programme with Carlisle Youth Zone.
Carlisle Youth Zone, in Victoria Place, provides somewhere for young people to have fun in a safe environment and develop their potential.
Based at the Cubby’s head office, on Kingstown Industrial Estate, three young people have participated in a programme offering an insight into the entry points and career paths available within the construction sector.
The company gave them the opportunity to experience joinery manufacturing, mechanical engineering and logistics setting, as well engaging with the creative arts in Cubby’s marketing and social media department.
One of the participants Ben Pearson, 14, said: “I really liked working with the mechanics at Cubby Construction. I got lots of hands-on experience, working on a car and an electric saw. I just wish we had a little more time with them. I would definitely recommend work experience to my friends and I will apply for an apprenticeship at Cubby when I’m older.”
Sophie Moscrop, 12, who joined Ben on the scheme, said: “It was fun to do something different. It’s nothing like school and we got to see and have a go at a variety of roles within Cubby. I really enjoyed taking photos and creating a social media post.”
Maxine Kirkpatrick, fabrication technician supervisor at Cubby Construction, said: “Our relationship with Carlisle Youth Zone is always incredibly rewarding. After events like this, colleagues always talk about the joy they experience at light bulb moments, when knowledge shared is put into practice and young people realise what they can achieve with a little help.
“This group of young people are a credit to themselves and an exemplar of the talent the construction sector needs to engage with if we are to collectively address the national skills shortage.
“It was a pleasure to host the young people and provide them with a reference to help kick start their careers.”
