Building a Lasting Legacy is helping students learn about careers in construction. Now, it has been shortlisted for two big awards:
- Excellence in Construction Skills at the Essex Housing Awards
- Delivering Sustainability and Social Value at the CIPFA Public Finance Awards
The programme has already given over 100 Year 9 pupils hands-on experience in trades. This includes carpentry, plumbing, digital design and civil engineering.
The project will continue supporting students through to Year 13. This will include regular mentoring, skills development and career advice.
Building a Lasting Legacy complements our Essex Year of Opportunity. This campaign works with businesses to help all ages learn useful skills and find jobs. So far, it has resulted in:
- A free directory of courses, certificates and resources
- A speech-recognition app to help children with reading and speaking
- A scheme where businesses donate old tech to help people get online
Morgan Sindall Construction is also supporting the Essex Year of Opportunity. It will introduce primary school pupils to construction careers, sparking interest early on.
Building a Lasting Legacy is run by Essex County Council and supported by:
- Morgan Sindall Construction
- Greater Essex Careers Hub
- Chelmsford College
- Anglia Ruskin University
Several local schools and construction companies also help make it a success.
Helen Clements, Senior Social Value Manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “During the Building a Lasting Legacy programme’s inaugural year, we’ve seen first-hand how vital this support and investment is for young people within our communities. For example, some of the pupils have found mainstream education difficult but have really engaged with the programme and are now on a path to further mentorship, experience, and opportunities in the future.”
Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “Being shortlisted for two awards is a fantastic endorsement of the Building a Lasting Legacy programme. It shows how powerful collaboration between education and industry can be in opening real career pathways for young people. The enthusiasm and progress we’ve seen from students in just the first year is inspiring, and it’s only the beginning.
“Building a Lasting Legacy also supports the Essex Year of Opportunity campaign, which is helping open doors to work and education through local partnerships. Essex is an ambitious and innovative county, but it only thrives when its people thrive. Residents of all ages should have endless opportunities to expand their skills and follow their passions without barriers.”
Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity, added: “It is great that so many local businesses are actively supporting young people through this programme. Being shortlisted for these awards is testament to the collaborative spirit and long-term vision behind the Building a Lasting Legacy programme.”
Watch the Year 1 Celebration Video to learn more about Building a Lasting Legacy.