Over 50 student work placements from national contractor

United Living has set up a host of work placement opportunities for Carshalton College and Merton College students on a site building 68 new homes for ex-service personnel.

The company has partnered with Haig Housing Trust to deliver and manage the work placements for over 50 Level 2 and Level 3 students who are learning construction skills at the College’s Merton Campus. The students have been working across various disciplines including plumbing, carpentry, electrical, drylining, bricklaying and plastering, at the construction site at Rhodes Moorhouse Court in Morden since November 2018

There have also been site visits to the housing development from Level 1 students based at South Thames College, who shall attend an on-site presentation about opportunities in the construction industry.

Farhan Mohamed, senior site manager at United Living, said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to provide these young people with the support and encouragement to learn new skills and pursue a career in construction.  Our team of professionals are enjoying sharing their own knowledge and experience, which will hopefully play a part in encouraging this next generation into the sector and ensure the construction industry continues to flourish and grow.”

Brigadier James Richardson, chief executive of Haig Housing Trust, said: “We’re delighted that this major development project on our Morden estate not only delivers 68 much needed new homes for Veterans and their families but has also benefited students from our neighbouring College. Aside from the skills they gain it also reflects the importance of the Armed Forces Covenant in bringing Veterans and local communities closer together.”

One of those taking part is Bryan Smyth, who is studying for a Level 3 diploma in electrical installation. He said: “I’ve had a fantastic time here, working with the team at United Living to gain some experience and understand what it’s actually like to work on a construction site. I’ve gained a lot of new skills and I want to thank them for this opportunity.”

Another is Nathan Williams, who is studying bricklaying: “My experiences working on this site were amazing. Everyone was friendly and welcoming and I’ve genuinely learnt loads of new skills. I hope to come back to help with the completion of the project.”