Ben Murray, Piers Hobson, and Alan Bridgman were pleased to attend the Essex Skills Festival at Writtle Agricultural College.

The event welcomed approximately 2,000 Year 8 students from across Essex, along with representatives from a wide range of industries, including Tesla, emergency services, health and beauty, IT, and construction.

Throughout the day, we engaged with 200–300 students, many of whom had the opportunity to try their hand at bricklaying and carpentry. We also hosted a fun and interactive competition where students assembled and dismantled mock kitchen units. In addition, we offered guidance on pathways into the construction industry and discussed the variety of on-site and off-site trades available.

The event was honoured by the presence of the High Sheriff of Essex, who enthusiastically joined us in laying bricks.