 |
|
| September 2003 Like Father Like Son
They say your school days are the best days of your life, but for some like 14-year-old Royston Farley from Kingsteignton, who wants to be a bricklayer, that is not quite the case. The Government’s recent green paper on 14-19 year-olds recognised this, when it advocated greater flexibility for young people who are more focused on work than on formal education. In South Devon, Royston is one of the lucky few to benefit. Selected as one of 10 from 240 Year 10 students at Teign School, Kingsteignton, Royston is following what the school calls their alternative curriculum, which is split between school, South Devon College and a work placement. The hardest part is often finding the placement, but Royston’s father, also called Royston, works as a machine driver for Bovey Construction of Caton, Ashburton. He asked managing director, Neil Turner, for his support and, as Royston Snr said, “It was as simple as that.” While Royston Jnr is following the core school curriculum, which includes maths, English, science and IT, he is also working towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award and following a Building Craft Foundation Award at South Devon College. The work placement with Bovey Construction introduces him to traditional skills and teamworking and enables him to put what he learns at college into practice. Royston is now finding out about the construction industry at a site in Totnes, working and learning alongside his father, who says: “I’ll back him all the way. He’s really keen and it’s great seeing him working hard and enjoying it so much. I only wish I’d had a chance like that when I was at school.” The real test is whether this new programme will be effective in getting young people like Royston into skilled jobs in industries ripe for continued expansion. In Royston’s case, Neil Turner from Bovey Construction is optimistic: “In two years’ time Royston will have good, practical experience, some theory and a grasp of essentials like IT. If things go according to plan, we will be more than happy to offer him a Modern Apprenticeship. The industry needs skilled men and women with a grasp of modern technology and Royston represents the next generation.” But the scheme’s depends heavily on the young person’s commitment and maturity. Asked for his views, Royston Jnr said: “College is much bigger than school, but really enjoyable. They’re pleased with my work and I get on with all the people there. The work experience is really good. Some of it is hard work, but I thoroughly enjoy it and I’m learning more than I was when I was just studying at school.” For more information, ring Bovey Construction on 01626 821919 or visit their website on www.boveyconstruction.co.uk. |
|
 |
|
|
[About
Us]
|
[The
Team]
|
[Training]
|
[Charter]
|
[Home]
|