Topic People, Early Careers
Date 09 Feb 2023
On all our schemes, Galliford Try looks to offer opportunities for young people to progress, through work experience, training and ultimately apprenticeships and careers in our industry.
Galliford Try Highways’ major Grantham Southern Relief Road project has become a key part of Lincoln College student Oscar Lacey’s studies since November 2021, with the 17-year-old undertaking a one-day-a-week work placement as part of his diploma in construction and built environment.
The opportunity has seen Oscar gain invaluable on-the-job experience by working on one of the county’s biggest road projects – and he is loving the journey so far.
He commented: “I’m really enjoying the placement I have with Galliford Try because I’ve been getting loads of experience learning and working on different areas of construction – like piling, structural concrete and surfacing.
“Another good example of how the placement has helped me is that I’ve had the chance to use a total station, a construction tool used for surveying by measuring angles and slopes – something we learned about during my first year at college.
“Not only has this experience put me in the unique position of having worked on such a big project while I’m still a student, but I think it will also give me an advantage when I finish my course and am ready to start a construction and engineering apprenticeship.”
Most local colleges encourage a minimum of 30 hours of work placement time. Since starting with Galliford Try, Oscar has completed over 500 hours, and has made himself a real part of the team.
Barry Knox, Senior Project Manager for Galliford Try, said: “What’s impressed me most about Oscar is the dedication and determination he’s shown since starting his placement with us.
“He’s been a true asset to the project and has shown a lot of potential. There’s no doubt that Oscar has a very bright future ahead of him.”
The fantastic progress Oscar has made has seen him offered an apprenticeship position when he completes his studies at Lincoln College later this year.
Oscar said: "I am grateful to have been presented with the opportunity of extending my stay with Galliford Try, through being offered an apprenticeship, and look forward to furthering my career in this exciting industry.”