CONSTRUCTION workers are giving youngsters a unique insight into the building world after securing a contract on a site adjacent to a school.
Gus Robinson Developments Ltd is building 12 new homes on behalf of Endeavour Housing Association and Stockton Borough Council at Abbey Hill, off Darlington Lane in Norton.
The work, which will comprise of eight houses and four bungalows, is being carried out on land next to Frederick Nattrass Primary Academy and is due to be completed in Spring 2016.
While the work is being carried out, the team from Gus Robinson Developments Ltd will be making regular visits to the school to tell them how the work is progressing, and will also welcome youngsters onto the site to give them a behind-the-scenes look at how the construction industry works.
Managing Director Steve Bell said: “The Abbey Hill site is right on the doorstep of the school, so it’s a great opportunity for us to get involved with them.
“During our time on the project, we will be able to bring some of the children onto the site to show them how we operate, and what goes into building a house.
“We will also be visiting the school to speak to the staff and students, and give them an insight into life in the construction sector.
“Getting involved with the community is something which we pride ourselves on, this is just another example of that.”
Headteacher Caroline Reed was joined by Year 5 and 6 pupils Gabriel Labron, Josh Eastwood, Charlie Davis, Lily Kay, Eden Moss, Rebecca Todd, Talimbika Kasambara, Lillie Durham and Liam Cheetham on the school’s first visit to the site this week.
She said: “We are trying to teach the children about the options which are open to them when they leave school, and all of the pupils here today have expressed an interest in the construction trade whether it is the actual building itself or the planning and design.
“With the site being so close to the school it is a perfect opportunity for us to get involved with Gus Robinson Developments Ltd and we are grateful to the team for giving us a unique opportunity to see how they work.”
The Hartlepool-based firm was crowned winner of the Heart of the Community Award in the regional section of the North East Business Awards, with judges being impressed by the firm’s involvement in the local community.
Gus Robinson Developments Ltd has enjoyed an impressive growth over the last three years, winning recognition from a host of industry sector awards following the successful completion of several contracts.