Rhiannon Baker, 16, is an aspiring architectural technician and is already on course for achieving this goal having secured a trainee position with a well-respected local firm.
After developing an interest in the construction industry, Rhiannon completed a BTEC in construction alongside her GCSEs at Plymstock School and then progressed to City College Plymouth to study a Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment.
Rhiannon said: “The Construction and Built Environment Diploma is the perfect course for anyone considering a career in architecture, surveying or in a construction management role. It helps you to develop your understanding of the industry as a whole and you acquire the knowledge that is required across a number of disciplines within the industry.
“Being at the College means I can study alongside my job with Bailey Partnership, which is a really fortunate position to be in. I love being able to learn on the job and get that workplace experience whilst gaining the qualifications I need to continue to university-level study.
“Being at College is great. I really enjoy being part of a group who all share the passion I have for the industry, and we are really lucky to have such a helpful lecturer. Dan is really supportive and his feedback is always excellent, and I feel I have learnt a lot since I joined the College.
“I’m also really enjoying being around my colleagues and mentors at Bailey Partnership – I’m so pleased I’m able to get the best of both worlds: studying and learning on the job. I know it won’t always be straightforward trying to juggle work and studying but both environments offer excellent support. I know I can message my lecturer if I need some guidance and he is always really quick to respond.
“Construction is a really interesting industry. Some people will immediately think buildings are boring, but they are so important to us all and how we live. The projects I work on and the buildings I play a role in developing, will hopefully be around for many years to come. They will be used by potentially thousands of people and I think that is really exciting. It’s also a really great choice in terms of prospects as there will always be job opportunities in this constantly changing industry.
“The construction industry is so varied there is a role for everyone, so I would recommend to anyone that they give it some thought. The College is a friendly, supportive place to be with highly knowledgeable lecturers, and I’m really pleased with how things are going so far.”