At-risk Flintshire pupils build construction skills thanks to hands-on learning

Youngsters at a Flintshire pupil referral unit are trading traditional classroom learning for practical, hands-on construction lessons to inspire them to enter one of the UK’s largest sectors.

Following the appointment of new design and technology tutor Gareth Edwards at Plas Derwen, learners at the Deeside-based school are developing skills in joinery, bricklaying, plastering, and tiling at the specialist education centre’s outdoor workshop facility.

The unit, created by Flintshire County Council’s LEAP (learn, explore, achieve, perform) programme and backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), is utilised by youngsters across key stages two to four.

Sessions, held Monday to Thursday, are aimed at reducing the number of under 16s  at risk of becoming NEET – not in education, employment, or training – by equipping them for future careers in construction.

The alternative provision at Plas Derwen also aims to strengthen links with local businesses, helping create pathways for youngsters to enter the sector through work experience and apprenticeships.

Mold-based MPH Construction Ltd is already set to engage with pupils at the school by providing a supervised visit to one its project sites in Brymbo.

One person who is benefitting from the lessons is 15-year-old Kyle Edwards and the Flintshire native is eager to enhance his skillset to progress onto a level one bricklaying course at Coleg Cambria, Deeside.

He said: “I enjoy more practical, hands-on learning so the chance to try out woodwork and bricklaying suits me better than lots of classroom studying.

“The workshops with our design and technology tutor are definitely my favourite, and I’ve already been able to make a dartboard out of wood as well as a toolbox and photo frame.

“In the future, I’d like to work in construction. I have some cousins who are already in the sector, so it would be cool to do the same.”

Lessons are conducted indoors during the winter months, with learners utilising key equipment such as laser cutters and compact drills to continue strengthening their skillset.

LEAP project manager Dan Larkin said: “With LEAP helping to enhance the alternative curriculum at Plas Derwen, the pupils are better placed to transition into the world of work, which is fantastic.

“Looking ahead, I hope to see more and more Flintshire construction firms engage with the pupils, whether that be through offering site visits, or placements, to give them further insight into the range of roles on offer in the sector.”

Gareth said: “Classes like these are essential as the youngsters can really build up their teamwork and confidence at pace in an environment that replicates what life would be like on a project site.

“As a former youth justice practitioner, it’s also great to be able to work alongside young people who need additional support once again and I’m confident that our lessons are playing a key role in equipping them for their futures.”

Councillor Chris Dolphin, cabinet member for environment, regeneration, countryside, and tourism said: “The opportunity for at-risk Flintshire pupils to engage in a more creative approach to education is fantastic, and I hope each and every learner at Plas Derwen can continue to upskill.

“Lessons taking place in the outdoor unit are also a testament to the lasting legacy of the UKSPF, which funded the development of the facility to serve cohorts for years to come.”

LEAP received just over £336,000 from Flintshire County Council’s allocation of the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for the continuation year of 2025-26.