International work experience expands students’ horizons
Mon, 28 April 2025
Tameside College students build skills and confidence during prestigious international placement.
Construction students from Tameside College recently took part in a two week work experience placement on the island of Malta, as part of the Turing Scheme.
The Turing Scheme provides funding for students to take part in international work experience opportunities, helping them gain real world employability skills whilst learning about other cultures and backgrounds.
During their time in Malta, students worked across six active construction sites in and around the town of St. Julians, working with local businesses. The placements gave students an opportunity to experience a wide range of roles in the construction industry.
The students, who are studying carpentry and joinery, brickwork, plumbing and electrical installation, immersed themselves in Maltese culture with day trips to the island of Gozo, a swim in the Blue Lagoon at Comino, a sightseeing tour of the capital city Valletta, and a visit to the Blue Grotto sea cavern.
Norman Gilkinson, carpentry and joinery teacher at Tameside College, said: “The trip allowed the students to travel, gain independence, enhance their social and practical skills and work as a team. Working on a construction project, in a foreign country with people who they don’t know is a big step and this will massively boost their confidence and knowledge. It has been a great trip overall, enjoyed by all.”
Noah Johnston, construction student at Tameside College, said: “It was great to see the similarities and differences between our and Malta’s cultures and overall I had a great experience during the trip and working with new people.”
Experiences such as these are an important part of Tameside College’s commitment to preparing students for their careers, providing them with opportunities to grow outside of a classroom environment.
To find out more about courses in construction at Tameside College, visit the college website or call 0161 908 6600.