EKC Canterbury College Apprentices receive donation from Persimmon Homes

Bricklaying apprentices at EKC Canterbury College, have received a donation of 3,000 bricks from Persimmon Homes, for use during their studies.  

These bricks, sourced from one of the company’s Aylesham sites, will be repurposed by the students all year round, ensuring they gain essential practical experiences in their trade.  

During the handover, Persimmon Homes representatives Craig West (Construction Director) and Natalie Sadler (External Affairs Manager) met with students and staff to discuss further opportunities for collaboration and to learn more about their hard work.  

Their visit included a tour of the College’s Construction facilities, as well as conversations about work experience placements, site visits, and how to access career pathways within the industry.  

The visit gave students across all Levels, the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, gaining insight into the expectations and opportunities within the construction sector. They were able to ask questions about apprenticeships, the skills employers are looking for, and how they can develop their careers beyond their studies.  

Representing EKC Canterbury College at the event were Phillip Wood (Programme Director of Bricklaying) and Chris Simmons (Deputy Head of Built Environment), who highlighted how partnerships with employers help enhance students’ learning experiences.  

Jamie Weir, Chief Communications Officer at East Kent Colleges Group, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Persimmon Homes to EKC Canterbury College and are incredibly grateful for their generous donation of 3,000 bricks.

“This donation is a vital resource for our students, providing them with the hands-on experience and practical skills that will directly benefit them in their future careers within the construction industry. 

“Collaborating with key employers in Kent, like Persimmon Homes, is invaluable for our students’ learning and professional development.”  

Industry engagement remains a priority for EKC Canterbury College, ensuring students gain exposure to workplaces and opportunities. Speaking about the collaboration, Craig West from Persimmon Homes said:  

“At Persimmon we are passionate about inspiring the next generation of construction workers and ensuring they have the right skills to help us build the homes we need here in the South East. 

“By working with colleges and supplying materials that are used in practical lessons, we can support that learning and give students that vital hands-on experience. 

“Seeing the skills showcased here, it is clear these students have successful careers ahead of them and it would be a pleasure to see some of them working on our developments in years to come.” 

Thanks to ongoing collaborations with local and national employers, EKC Canterbury College remains committed to supporting students as they progress into their chosen careers with many options including Apprenticeships available. 

Learn more about our Construction Apprenticeships across East Kent.