Suffolk New College’s Suffolk Rural campus has received a generous boost to its brickwork facilities thanks to a £1,000 donation of blocks and timber from Barnes Construction.
The contribution will directly support the training and education of future construction professionals, giving apprentices access to high‑quality materials that mirror those used on live building sites. During a recent visit to the brick workshop at the Suffolk Rural campus, representatives from Barnes Construction met tutors and apprentices and saw their branding now proudly displayed across the bricklaying area, which the company has officially sponsored.
Mark Crisp, Head of Construction at Suffolk New College, said: “A massive thank you to Barnes Construction, one of our main industry partners, and their donation of £1,000 of products. They have been very generous in giving our learners the best opportunity to use new products and it’s as if they are actually working on site.”
Director of Engineering, Construction & Building Technology at Suffolk New College, Dr Emma Harvey, said: “This is a wonderful example of the generosity of our industry partners who provide vital support to the college. These partnerships with local employers serve to bridge education and employment. Employers benefit from opportunities to shape the curriculum and ensure those entering the workforce have used industry standards resources, tools and equipment. And our learners get to spend time with future employers.”
Apprentices are already benefitting from the donation, including 20‑year‑old Liam Holding from Eye, who is completing a Level 3 brickwork apprenticeship. He said: “You need good materials to make good work, so a big thanks to Barnes Construction.”
The donation forms part of Suffolk New College’s wider Industry Partnership Scheme launched three years ago to connect learners with employers across East Anglia. More than 210 companies have signed up, each pledging to deliver at least three activities per year, from work experience and guest lectures to material donations, all designed to enhance learner progression.
Mark Crisp added: “My message to others in terms of why they should get involved as an Industry Partner is: come and join us. We have worked with over 700 businesses this year and teach thousands of students. Work with us, come and have your name up in lights at our four college campuses and help us shape your future workforce.”
Barnes Construction sees the partnership as a vital link between industry and education. Dan Mackenzie, Associate Divisional Director at Barnes Construction, said: “It’s good to get the opportunity to meet the tutors and learners and talk to them about careers in construction. As one of the biggest regional construction contractors, we want to create effective pathways for young people to take their first steps in their career. We also want to work with our supply chain to encourage them to take on more apprentices.”
For more information about the Industry Partnership Scheme at Suffolk New College, visit: Industry Partners – Suffolk New College