SALFORD CITY ACADEMY?S SOLID FOUNDATIONS

Construction course is here to stay 

After a successful trial period, Salford City Academy’s ‘BTEC First Diploma in Construction (Level 2)’ is officially here to stay. The six unit course will now be rolled out to all Sixth Formers in a move that further diversifies the applied learning side of the Academy’s course portfolio. 

“At Salford City Academy we recognise the individual needs of all our pupils,” said Director of Sixth Form, Matt Bold. “Most Sixth Formers follow the traditional A and A/S level route but some respond better to vocational courses. We see it as our duty to accommodate those pupils and that is why we are making Construction a permanent part of our curriculum.”  

Head of Construction, Lee Farnell was equally happy with the news. He said: “Last year, we worked hard to develop student appreciation of each trade through practical skill development and regular site visits. By the end of the year students were more confident in their ability and I’m just as confident they will be successful in the industry,” he added.  

The course’s six units cover Health and Safety, an Introduction to Construction, three units of Carpentry/ Joinery and a taster unit in Bricklaying, tiling and plastering.  

One pupil to benefit directly from the course’s first year was 17 year-old Louis Morrow, who spent last year working closely with former joiner Lee, and has recently accepted a place to study for his BTEC in Construction, specialising in joinery.  

“In Construction the tools and the facilities are superb. In the classroom there is a lot of space to work in and that comes in handy when you’re working on large objects like door frames. I love working and learning with my hands and can’t wait to get started next year,” said Louis.  

Construction will now join Health and Beauty, Childcare, Sports Science and Football Coaching as a permanent vocational fixture on Salford City Academy Sixth Form’s Academic timetable.