4 hands-on sessions this spring give secondary school pupils a genuine taste of careers in bricklaying, carpentry, design and building services. 

Hugh Baird College, rated Outstanding by Ofsted, is launching a new After School Construction Academy this spring, offering Year 11 pupils a free, practical introduction to 1 of the UK’s fastest-growing employment sectors.

Running across 4 sessions from April to May, the Academy gives pupils the opportunity to work with professional tools and materials, guided by experienced industry lecturers. Sessions are free to attend and open to all Year 11 students, whether they are set on a career in construction or simply curious to find out more. 

The Academy comes at a time of significant demand for skilled construction workers both nationally and across the Liverpool City Region. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that the UK needs almost 48,000 extra construction workers per year through to 2029. Closer to home, the Liverpool City Region faces an estimated shortfall of 9,000 construction workers over the next 5 years. 

Paula Waltmaier, Director of Professional Construction and Trades at Hugh Baird College, said:- “Construction is 1 of the most diverse and in-demand industries in the country, and we want young people in our Region to see that 1st-hand. For Year 11 pupils starting to think about their next steps, these sessions are a chance to try something practical, explore potential career paths and find out more about the courses available at the College.” 

The sessions all take place from 4pm to 5pm at the College’s dedicated state-of-the-art construction workshops and facilities. Pupils can register for all 4 workshops or choose individual sessions that align with their interests. The sessions include:-

Bricklaying - 20 April 2026
A practical introduction to 1 of the most in-demand trades in the UK, covering mortar mixing, professional tool handling and laying a 1st course of bricks. 

Carpentry and Joinery - 27 April 2026
This session covers the core techniques used on live construction sites, including measuring, marking, and cutting timber with professional equipment. 

Design, Surveying and Planning - 11 May 2026
This session explores the technical and professional side of construction, covering how buildings are designed, costed and managed from concept through to completion. Ideal for anyone interested in architecture, quantity surveying or project management. 

Plumbing, Heating and Electrical - 18 May 2026
An introduction to the building services systems that keep modern structures functioning, including heating and plumbing, ventilation and electrical installations. 

Registration is now open, and spaces are limited. Students and parents can sign up here.