Students from the Level 1 Carpentry course at Carshalton College recently had the opportunity to experience the construction industry first-hand during a visit to the new Shurgard Self Storage development in Sutton, hosted by construction specialists Jackson Rowe.
The visit gave students a valuable insight into a live construction project, allowing them to see how plans and drawings are translated into a finished building. Guided around the site by industry professionals, students examined the project blueprints and learned how the layout of the storage units had been designed and organised within the building.
As they toured the development, students were able to see exactly where individual storage units would be positioned and gained an understanding of the construction methods being used to install walls, partitioning systems and doors. This provided a practical context for many of the skills and concepts they will be studying in the classroom and workshop.
The group also explored the structural elements of the build, discussing the foundations of the development and the processes involved in creating each level of the building. Industry experts explained the sequencing of construction work and highlighted the importance of careful planning and collaboration across different trades to ensure projects are completed safely and efficiently.
A key focus of the visit was understanding how changes in legislation and building standards influence modern construction projects. Students learned about new fire safety regulations and how these have impacted the materials and finishes being used throughout the development. The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring buildings not only meet current regulations but remain compliant with evolving standards designed to improve safety for occupants.
The site visit formed part of Carshalton College's commitment to providing students with meaningful industry experiences that complement their studies. By engaging directly with employers and construction professionals, students were able to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, gain a deeper understanding of career opportunities within the sector, and see the high standards required on modern construction projects.
The College would like to thank Jackson Rowe and the team at Shurgard Self Storage for providing such an informative and engaging experience, helping to inspire the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
