We’re thrilled to announce that the Wolfson Foundation has awarded almost £50,000 to create a dedicated construction skills facility for students at Olive AP Academy - Nene Valley. The facility will offer students the opportunity to gain skills in core areas of construction and carpentry.
David Saunders, Acting Head of Olive AP Academy - Nene Valley, said:
We’re hugely thankful to the Wolfson Foundation for this generous grant. The grant will allow us to create a bespoke construction facility for students, offering more opportunities for our young people to gain vocational qualifications and skills for life.
This exciting development has been very much led by the student voice; many students want to pursue a career in construction and this facility will enable them to gain the relevant vocational qualifications to successfully take that next step in education or employment. We will be offering BTEC Level 1 and 2 qualifications in construction skills such as bricklaying, plastering, plumbing and carpentry, which will equip students with the relevant skills to access further education, apprenticeships and more.
Paul Ramsbottom, Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation, said:
Olive AP Academy - Nene Valley impressed us with their commitment to supporting their students overcome obstacles to learning and acquire practical skills and qualifications which will help them progress into further education or employment. We believe this new construction skills facility will be a great asset to the academy and the local community.
The facility also offers something new to the local area and it is hoped that in time we will be able to work with other partner organisations to further develop relationships with professionals and the local community.
It is anticipated that work will start in the Spring, with the intention of the new facility being available to students during the academic year 2024/25.