Gower College Swansea student Kian Lewis-Edwards has recently completed a four-day work experience assignment with Kier that provided him with the kinds of practical, hands-on insight into the construction industry that cannot be taught in a classroom.
The College is working in partnership with Kier to undertake a £20.6 million redevelopment project at the Gorseinon campus, supported by the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.
When completed, the redevelopment will include:
• A new entrance area: Designed to enhance both aesthetics and accessibility, this welcoming, state-of-the-art space will benefit both students and staff.
• Additional classrooms and student social spaces: To enrich the learner experience, these spaces will enhance the learner experience, providing inspirational spaces for students to learn and collaborate.
• Improved traffic flow system: Designed to reduce congestion and increase safety across the campus
The experience provided Kian with eye-opening exposure to project planning, construction management, sub-contractor engagement, coordination, and health and safety.
Kian is currently studying HNC Construction Management at the College after completing a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. He attended an employability fair at the Tycoch Campus where he met with Amanda Swoboda, corporate social responsibility manager at Kier, and was able to discuss his career aspirations.
Here is his first-hand account:
“At first, I was nervous about the experience and what it might entail. However, my first steps into the office were extremely welcoming. The first person I met was the gate person, Lucas, and he was incredibly cheerful and helpful with direction. Following that, I met the project manager of the site, Ian, and the construction manager, Todd, and they were both very welcoming.
My interest is in the architectural design aspect of construction, designing buildings and structures, and working with clients. I was fascinated with the comprehensive project drawings shown to me by Ian and the team. As my first morning progressed, I also met the site assistant manager Trystan, who guided me through my work experience, and we had plenty of interesting discussions about the industry and the project. He also suggested I attend various meetings and briefings to help my understanding of what the project was, and what processes were taking place.
On my first day, I learned that Kier’s guiding principle is ‘nothing is so important that you cannot take the time to do it safely,’ and I quickly realised that there is no messing about when it comes to safety at Kier! I attended a meeting with a subcontractor and was astonished to find how many measures there are to consider and that health and safety was the absolute priority.
As the day progressed Trystan and Todd planned a site visit, allowing me to have a physical and visual induction to the project. PPE had been provided in advance, and I was grateful for the opportunity to be present on site. The project looked small from afar but was fascinating to look at from below. With analysis of the drawings, I was able to visualise what the project would look like when finished and I could see the details in person.
After the site visit, I met the design team manager, Ade, and he was very welcoming and informative and answered all my questions. I was very impressed by the coordination of the project as well as the collaboration within diverse departments. Ade showed me the collaborative programs that everyone uses in the office, and I had never seen anything like it.
I also met the quantity surveyors in the office, led by Andrew. They provided an insight into quantity surveying, and it was complex; however, they were open to my questions. After taking lots of notes with them and having lengthy discussions, I have a much greater understanding of the financial and legal side of construction.
Overall, my experience provided invaluable insights into health and safety practices, sustainability and environmental practices, project coordination, and advanced construction methodologies. Beyond technical skills, it fostered critical thinking, adaptability, and a proactive mindset.
This is an experience that I would like to pursue again, and I recommend it greatly to those who are interested in the construction industry. It is a very worthwhile opportunity and experience to have. Kier provides many opportunities for career development – the one that caught my eye was the diverse range of degree apprenticeships so watch this space!”
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Gower College Swansea would like to thank Kier for extending this fantastic opportunity to Kian. Students who are interested in exploring work experience can email sustainability@kier.co.uk for more information