Building a Lasting Legacy (BaLL) – a careers programme launched to introduce young people in Essex to the construction industry – is celebrating its first anniversary.
The five-year programme has involved three schools across Chelmsford and is designed to help develop a diverse pipeline of talent for the region’s built environment sector.
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To celebrate BaLL’s inaugural year, many Year 9 students, parents, and industry professionals recently gathered for a celebratory event at Chelmsford College.
Eight students who demonstrated exceptional commitment and skill throughout the programme received awards during the event.
Parents and carers attended talks on post-16 and post-18 education pathways, where they heard directly from employers about what they look for in future recruits.
A panel discussion led by Morgan Sindall featured representatives from construction firms including Ingleton Wood, Kier, Ringway Jacobs, GSQ Brickwork and Site Ready Solutions.
Unlocking skills and talent
Helen Clements, senior social value manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “During the [BaLL] programme’s inaugural year, we’ve seen first-hand how vital this support and investment is for young people within our communities.
“For example, some of the pupils have found mainstream education difficult but have really engaged with the programme and are now on a path to further mentorship, experience, and opportunities in the future.
“On top of this, we know that programmes like this will unlock the skills and talent the county’s built environment sector needs to create the high quality, sustainable buildings of tomorrow.
“All of this makes the [BaLL] project very close to the hearts of Morgan Sindall’s Chelmsford-based team, and we can’t wait to see what the next four years bring.”
The BaLL programme has already exceeded its initial target, engaging more than 108 students in its first year.
The programme includes school-based competitions, site visits, mentoring, and work experience.
Christina Sapsed, a tutor from Hylands School, reflected on the impact of the programme: “Seeing our students embrace the challenges and thrive in the different environments is wonderful.
“Without the valuable support from companies such as Morgan Sindall and Essex County Council, these events would not be possible. They provided their time and resources to invest in pupils' future from a young age.
“Inspiring students to enter the profession and to see how vast the opportunities are to them is priceless.”
