Partnership in Action: students get hands-on at Kettering General Hospital

Students enjoyed a hands-on experience on 10th September at Kettering General Hospital, working with IHP, the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine to build a bug hotel and hibernacula.

The session began with an overview of the hospital site and the work taking place as part of the development of the Energy Centre. Students also learned more about the purpose of the bug hotel and why it forms part of the wider project that construction development mitigate environmental impacts including replacing habitat losses by installing Bug Hotels for insects, and hibernacula for overwintering newts, frogs and toads.

They then got stuck in, working together to construct the bug hotel using a range of hand tools and materials.

Students followed instructions carefully, wore the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and worked safely throughout the activity. The session also provided a fantastic opportunity to develop important skills for both the world of work and everyday life. Students practised listening, communication, teamwork, and following instructions, while taking responsibility for their own safety and working together to complete the task.

It was fantastic to see the students getting involved, supporting each other and taking pride in what they had created. A huge thank you to Nick, Shaun, Helen, of Sir Robert McAlpine the lead partner in the Kettering Energy Centre project under the Integrated Health Projects IHP, the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine for their time, support and for making the experience such an enjoyable and valuable one for the students.

Experiences like this show the real value of bringing education and industry together, giving students the chance to learn by doing, build confidence and develop skills that will stay with them. We have thoroughly enjoyed working together and look forward to more opportunities in the future.