New students at the South Devon University Technical College recently visited Linden Homes at Sherford to discover how they’ll be able to practically develop their engineering skills.
The pupils, all aged between 14 and 15, will start their courses in engineering and science in September. They were met by Linden Homes’ project manager, Glen Hilton, who has just won a coveted NHBC Pride in the Job Quality Award for his outstanding work at Sherford. The group enjoyed a tour of the development and were introduced to the site team, learning about the different roles within the housebuilding company.
Speaking about the visit, Glen said: “The new students were enthusiastic and asked some interesting questions. We had lots of discussions on the engineering challenges we face when creating a new homes development, such as topography and providing the necessary services.
“Sherford is a flagship development and will take many years to build, so it’s wonderful to introduce the next generation to Sherford, especially as some of them may end up working here in future! We could definitely see some budding engineers and we wish them every success.”
Alison Hannah, assistant principal at South Devon UTC said: “Gaining on-the-job experience is invaluable and really complements what the students learn in a classroom setting. We’re very grateful to Linden Homes for taking the time to pass on their knowledge and expertise – the pupils absolutely loved it.”
The SDUTC is working closely with local industry in the fields of engineering, the environment and water to offer GCSE studies for pupils from Year 10, plus A-Levels and BTECs for those aged 16-18. The college is supported by a number of significant employers and founding partners of the UTC, including Galliford Try, South West Water, Centrax, the Environment Agency and national charity Water Aid.
Brian Deacon, sales and marketing director of Linden Homes (part of the Galliford Try Group) said: “As one of the nation’s leading home-builders, with a strong portfolio across the South West, we’re very keen to support the UTC and to see it, and its students, succeed. The construction and civil engineering sector needs young people with the skills required to help drive economic growth in the future, and we hope this new school will help to provide them.”
The visit took place at Linden Homes’ popular Sherford development. Nestled in the South Hams, with easy access to Plymouth, the new town will incorporate high quality homes with a host of amenities. Currently available at Sherford is a collection of two bedroom apartments, one and three bedroom coach houses, plus three, four and five bedroom homes.
For more details, visit the sales and marketing suite open daily from 10am to 5pm, off Haye Road, near Plymouth, PL9 8AR. Call 01752 526 561 or email sherford@lindenhomes.co.uk.
For further information on the SDUTC visit www.southdevonutc.org
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Media can contact Emma Mackay on 077383 12960 for more information, images and interviews with Linden Homes.
