Member Article

Construction firm hits the target to inspire students

A major North East construction firm is taking time out to inspire local students who are studying for a career in construction.

Gentoo Tolent visited 30 students from bricklaying, joinery, tiling and painting and decorating trades at Northumberland College to discuss their aspirations of working within the construction industry.

The newly formed construction company also spoke about the diversity construction offers as a career choice.

Paul Webster, Managing Director of Gentoo Tolent, said: “A career in construction offers so much to young people today. Building relationships like we have with Northumberland College, we can really help to nurture and train those starting out in their chosen construction discipline.

“With the commitment from our staff who have been out to speak to these students today, as well as the commitment from our supply chain who enable us to deliver informative and valuable workshops with students, we are ensuring the next influx of construction operatives are ready for what the industry needs.”

The students discussed what they would expect from an employer when working on a construction site and what an employer would expect from them. The main themes included safe working environments, respect for your colleagues and the properties you work in, professionalism and their reputation.

Another group of Northumberland College students recently visited a live Gentoo Tolent site in Burnside for client Bernicia, and were able to see first-hand the ins and outs of a refurbishment scheme.

John Johnson, Placement Officer at Northumberland College said: “The overall feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with the students in particular enjoying the experience, they felt they got a lot from it.

“The students pointed out how organised and well run the site was and quite surprised at how friendly and approachable the workers were on the site. They were also amazed at the difference made to the houses with the addition of extensions and the bay windows to the front.

“I would again like to thank Gentoo Tolent for their time and effort that was put into these visits and look forward to doing it again.”

In 2014/2015 Gentoo Tolent facilitated 580 site visits as it continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering more than just the build programme.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jennifer Scullion .