New students at Newton Abbot’s South Devon University Technical College recently visited Linden Homes’ Kings Gate development in Kingsteignton to discover how they will be able to practically develop their engineering skills.
The 20 pupils, all aged between 14 and 15, will start at the college in September. They were met by Linden Homes’ sales and marketing director, Brian Deacon; site manager, Chris Braley; and senior site manager, Bob Mitchell, who has just won a coveted NHBC Pride in the Job Award for his outstanding work at Kings Gate.
The group, who will be studying engineering and science, enjoyed a tour of the development and were introduced to the site team, learning about the different roles within the housebuilding company.
Commenting on the visit, Brian said: “The new students were incredibly enthusiastic and it was fantastic to see them so inspired. We had an interesting discussion with them on some of the engineering challenges we face when creating a new homes development, such as topography and providing the necessary services.
“We could definitely see some budding engineers eager to start their studies in September 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.
Nigel Palmer, managing 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 Kings Gate development in Kingsteignton, where there are currently two, three and four bedroom homes available.
For further information on the SDUTC visit www.southdevonutc.org
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Media can contact Emma Mackay on 07738312960 for more information, images and interviews with Linden Homes.
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