Morgan Sindall Construction held two practical engagement sessions for educational needs and disabilities (SEND) students, to help them learn more about the construction industry
The team is currently building the Orion Academy on Knights Road in Oxford.
The £12m development is being delivered for Oxfordshire County Council, for whom the company is also currently building a new £3m extension to the nearby Hanborough Manor School.
Both sessions were supported by specialist mechanical and engineering contractor, J&B Hopkins from the project’s supply chain.
Students and teachers from the school were invited to a guided tour of the site, where they were able to view how the building of their new school home is progressing, as well as ask operatives from J&B Hopkins questions about the work involved.
Twelve pupils were then invited to join a mechanical and electrical workshop on pipe crimping, where they were able to try their hand at joining both copper and plastic pipes followed by an electrical workshop, where they were taught how to set up a double plug socket under expert guidance from J&B Hopkins.
Both events were held in strict compliance with current Covid-19 health and safety guidelines, with all attendees maintaining social distancing and wearing protective PPE.
The team is working closely with their supply chain throughout the duration of the project and is focused on adding social value to the school and local community both during and after the build.
A chance to understand mechanical and electrical services
Lynne Smith, Headteacher at Orion Academy, said: “We are delighted to have such positive links with our new build and the Morgan Sindall Construction team and we are really excited to be moving into our new school.”
Nick Humber, from JB Hopkins, added: “ We are pleased to be able to give the students who will be using the new academy the opportunity to be able to see the academy in its construction phase and to give them the chance to understand about the mechanical and electrical services being installed in their new state of the art facility.”
