STUDENTS from Alcester Academy have been given an insight into working in the construction industry during National Apprenticeship Week.

The week marked the launch of Redrow Home’s apprentice recruitment drive with careers talks at schools and site visits for students interested in working in the construction industry.

Alcester Academy is just a short journey away from The Pastures, where Redrow is building new homes, and a group of 19 students in years 10 and 11 visited the development to learn about the different roles and the stages of construction.

Helen Black, enterprise education co-ordinator at Alcester Academy, said: “The site visit is perfect example of a partnership between schools and employers to help prepare young people for work.

"Getting to see a building site in action was an amazing experience for our students as it gave them a realistic idea of what to expect from a career in the construction industry. We’re grateful to Redrow for the experience.”

Celebrating its 40th anniversary later this year, Redrow will be taking on 40 new apprentices, one for each year of the company’s history.

Karen Jones, HR director for Redrow Homes, added: “Apprenticeships offer young people the chance to gain valuable skills, experience and qualifications while getting paid.

"It was great to see that so many are interested in a career in the construction industry and were keen to find out more about their options.”