Oaklands College Students Excel in Prestigious VolkerFitzPatrick Placement Programme

Oaklands College students recently embarked on an extraordinary journey with VolkerFitzPatrick, one of the UK's leading construction and civil engineering firms, as part of a competitive placement programme designed to enhance their T Level qualifications in Design, Surveying, and Planning (DSP) for Construction.

The first session, held on Friday 8th November 2024, took students to the Radlett construction site, home to the impressive Radlett Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) project. Here, learners were introduced to the intricacies of one of the UK's largest railway developments. They observed the initial construction phases and learned about future plans, including the development of a terminal, railway lines, and connections to the Midlands Mainline (MML).

A presentation by the project manager shed light on the project's history, site structure, and its ecological planning efforts. From safeguarding endangered species to timing construction activities around nesting seasons, the session underscored the industry's commitment to sustainability. The day concluded with an engaging team assessment, where learners planned the build schedule for a new school within tight constraints, sharpening their time management and teamwork skills.

Gaining Critical Skills for the Industry

The first session left students with invaluable takeaways, including:

•    Enhanced problem-solving and decision-making skills.
•    The ability to collaborate with diverse groups.
•    Improved time management under pressure.
•    Leadership and task delegation techniques.
•    An appreciation for innovative ideas and knowledge sharing.

Interviews and Presentations: The Final Challenge

Six outstanding learners progressed to the second session on Friday 15th November 2024, a more intensive round involving individual interviews and a presentation panel. Each student presented their vision for a future role in the construction industry, tailoring their research to reflect both personal interests and VolkerFitzPatrick’s core values.

This stage tested their professionalism, industry knowledge, and alignment with the company’s mission, showcasing the practical and theoretical insights gained through their studies.

The students’ performance throughout the programme exemplified the high standards of Oaklands College. Their professionalism, attitude, and knowledge left a lasting impression on the VolkerFitzPatrick team, highlighting the value of the college’s focus on real-world experiences alongside academic learning.

The VolkerFitzPatrick placement programme has not only provided a pathway for Oaklands College learners to thrive in the construction industry but also set a benchmark for future collaborations with leading industry partners.