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Stevenage students learn an invaluable careers lesson thanks to home improvement partners
Stevenage students learn an invaluable careers lesson thanks to home improvement partners
March 17th 2010
The partners working on a programme to improve housing in Stevenage have offered local young people with an invaluable opportunity to take their first steps into the world of work.
Three Construction and the Built Environment Diploma students from Thomas Alleynes School in High Street, Stevenage were invited by Stevenage Homes to participate in an ‘Experience of Work’ week organised by Herts Chamber of Commerce.
The students were initially tasked with learning as much as possible regarding Stevenage Homes, its partner organisations and the kitchen, bathroom, heating and electrical work currently being undertaken and to assist with this they spent time with the Connaught team working on Decent Homes improvements in the area.
In addition, the students were also invited to investigate issues such as anti-social behaviour, nuisance, graffiti, littering and poor lighting around The Glebe shopping area of Stevenage. A subsequent fact-finding mission saw the students gather information, take photographs and speak with local shopkeepers and residents about the issues they faced.
David John, Connaught customer experience manager, said: “After compiling their findings the students delivered a thoroughly impressive presentation to a panel comprising representatives from Connaught, Herts Chamber of Commerce and Stevenage Homes. The students provided great reasoning for the provision of additional litter bins on the route between the shops and the local school and the introduction of better lighting, whilst we were particularly impressed with the forward thinking idea to utilise vacant shop premises as a venue for a new youth club.
“We have already asked the students to present their insights to the Tenants’ Forum local to The Glebe area and the whole exercise has proved to not only be thoroughly enjoyable for all but it has also provided the students with an insight into the world of work which will hopefully prove invaluable as they consider their future career options.“
Stevenage Homes and Connaught are working in partnership as part of a five year programme to provide Decent Homes improvements to properties in the area.