Moulton College students get hands-on work experience helping Kettering Library £4.8m roof replacement project
Construction students have been given hands-on work experience helping with the roof replacement project high above Kettering Library and art gallery.
Principal contractor Messenger BCR Group, working to replace the new Collyweston slate roof over the complex, has partnered with North Northants Council (NNC) and Moulton College, to provide the opportunity to work on the site.
Students specialising in stonemasonry took part in placements to boost confidence, strengthen technical skills and open ways into employment across the heritage, culture, tourism and construction sectors.
Wayne Gray, site manager at Messenger BCR, said: “It’s been a real pleasure welcoming the Moulton College students on site and seeing first-hand their enthusiasm for heritage work. These buildings are an important part of Kettering’s story, and giving students the chance to work on them helps connect traditional skills with the next generation of craftspeople.
"At Messenger, we’re passionate about protecting historic buildings and just as committed to securing the future of heritage trades by investing in hands-on training and meaningful opportunities like this.”
This initiative builds on NNC’s relationship with Moulton College that began at The Chester House Estate and expanded to ‘Cornerstone’ in Kettering.
Richard Ball, head of faculty - construction trades and heritage skills at Moulton College said: "Work experience placements such as this so important for our students. Whilst we can teach them skills and knowledge at college, nothing beats real site experience. We are extremely grateful to both North Northamptonshire Council and Messenger for working with us on this project.”
North Northamptonshire Council is now set to grow further opportunities with Discover Northamptonshire and the Corby Heritage Centre.
Cllr Greg Wilcox,NNC’s executive member for communities, said: “With traditional trades like stonemasonry, real life opportunities like this are invaluable for students and I am so pleased we were able to facilitate getting Moulton College pupils on site.
“The Culture, Tourism and Heritage team are looking to build on this further - working closely with further and higher education providers across the local area to create meaningful personal and professional development opportunities across the service.
“Whilst work continues on site it is great that, like with our Heritage Open Days event last year, we are able to take this opportunity to give a unique perspective, whilst helping students learn and prepare for the future.”