Project Description

Industry:  Construction   

Activity Type: Work Inspiration and Preparation / Sector Awareness / Skills Development 

Businesses involved: Various 

Name of School: Lochgelly High School 

Lochgelly High School partnered with a range of construction sector employers to deliver an immersive, hands-on learning experience for pupils in S3–S6. Through a series of six interactive workshops, students engaged directly with industry professionals and explored practical elements of construction careers. 

This initiative, supported by Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Fife, was designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, while also helping young people envision their future in one of Scotland’s key economic sectors. 

 Employers and Partners Involved

Wernick Group 

Glenmoir Construction 

Fife College

Robertson Construction 

Pier 

Nationwide 

These organisations committed their time, equipment, and expertise to support the event. Many are long-term collaborators with the school through the DYW Fife programme, motivated by a shared goal to invest in the next generation of talent. They recognised the value of early engagement and saw this initiative as an opportunity to raise awareness of career pathways while promoting workforce sustainability within their own industries.

Held on-site at Lochgelly High School, the event featured: 

Interactive stations hosted by each partner organisation, showcasing trades such as bricklaying, joinery, surveying, and decorative finishes (e.g., marbling effects).

Live demonstrations including the use of a working digger brought directly into the school grounds. 

Informal networking and Q&A sessions where pupils could ask professionals about their career journeys. 

Importantly, the format allowed every interested pupil to participate—without the constraints of transport or external venue limits. 

Key Outcomes 

Employer Engagement: Pupils interacted with industry professionals, helping build their confidence and initiating connections that may lead to mentorships, work placements, or future job opportunities.

Real-World Application: Students saw how academic subjects like maths, design, and physics are applied on actual construction sites. 

Increased Motivation: For some pupils, this event was a turning point—igniting genuine interest in pursuing a career in construction. 

Hands-On Experience: Pupils gained practical exposure to construction tools and techniques, experiencing what it’s like to work in the field. 

Pupil Feedback 

“It was great to be able to impress future employers. Pier and Jarvie Plant really helped us recognise our skills.” 

“The presenters were excellent. They highlighted different tasks and showed us what the future can hold.”