The Most Autumn Winter 2021/2022

Walter Carefoot & Sons (Construction) Ltd We were thrilled to learn that Carefoot PLC took the opportunity to sponsor one of our scholarship learners. Colin Carefoot, Chief Executive says: “We are proud to sponsor a place on the scholarship programme and privileged to be in a position to be able to support young talent who someday, will be the leading associate of the con- struction trade.” Carefoot are leading the construction build of our brand new and updated Construction Skills Centre which will house our T-Level Professional Construction learners. This update of the building, designed with award-winning architects, Frank Whittle Partnership, is an exciting development of our current construction building and will ensure that learners have access to the latest technology and equipment, combined with high-specification industry-standard facilities. The college is confident that this development will support our industry-trained staff to further advance the delivery of high quality technical learning. Colin adds: “As the build continues, we are delighted to have been able to offer learners at the college a real-life classroom experience. As we work onsite, learners are regularly brought in to observe the work we do and are often permitted to participate in some of our planned projects. This is an incredible learning opportunity and offers valuable experience to the learners who acquire real hands-on learning on a building site, whilst developing their knowledge. It also helps inspire the future generation, as they watch things slowly come together. It opens their eyes to the many different routes in construction and that there’s so many more pathways. There is a real skills shortage nationally within construction, even though the industry is booming. Places like Preston College are making sure that the stream of young talent is coming through and the curriculum is reflected to ensure that learners are being taught new and relevant skills.” Mark Taylor, Head of School for Construction and Engineering adds: “This has been an incredible opportunity for our learners and for our staff who teach on the technical construction courses at the college. The newly improved build will be their world - where they will work and learn. We have all seen it develop from initial plans all the way through to completion. It is wonderful to have this on our campus and such a phenomenal onsite facility for our future generation of learners.” The Construction Skills Centre undergoing refurbishment 08 We would like to take the opportunity to celebrate and equally recognise the Pinecone Trust who, with their generosity and support, enable our learners to progress positively with their further education courses which lead to university and positive employment. For some learners this is something that they may never have thought possible. From Preston College, we thank all that the Pinecone Trust has provided to our learners.