Why it matters: The students, aged 16-24, have just started a multi-skills course at Lofty Heights Skills Academy and are exploring career opportunities in construction, getting first-hand experience of a working building site.
The big picture: Lofty Heights CIC is a not-for-profit social enterprise that helps people live safely at home by sensitively decluttering, deep cleaning and organising their belongings and living space. Through their work, they also create new and inspiring employment and training opportunities for young people.
The Lofty Heights Skills Academy focuses on strengths-based development, supporting 16-24-year-olds not in education, employment, or training. Their asset-based approach builds confidence and resilience, creating meaningful pathways to adulthood and lifelong independence for young people in Ipswich.
The details: The five students received a site induction and health and safety briefing from Gipping Construction Contracts Manager Peter Flatt and Site Manager Chris Crabtree before touring the development.
Budding scaffolders were keen to test the weight of the different tubes, while the future bricklayers were interested in the different types of blocks used for weight-bearing.
During the visit, Flatt and Crabtree explained technical aspects of the project, including "extensive remediation and sheet piling," while discussing the variety of career paths available in construction.
What they're saying: "It’s so empowering for young people to be able to visualise what to expect when they are moving into the world of work," said Claire Flowers of Lofty Heights. "This particular group have been quiet and reserved. Jon has lead the way for them in building confidence and opportunities like having you involved really adds strength to Jon's underpinning work."
What's next: The Hawke Road project will deliver 26 homes ranging from one to four bedrooms, designed by Barefoot & Gilles Architects for Handford Homes, which is part of Ipswich Borough Council.
The development, which will include a new play area centrally placed within the site, is due for completion in early 2026. The properties will be equipped with environmentally friendly technology including solar panels, air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points.
The bottom line: The site visit provided practical insights for the students while showcasing how construction projects can combine housing needs with sustainable features, supporting the Skills Academy's mission to jumpstart careers and unlock potential for young people not in education, employment, or training.
