Work experience success

July 8, 2021

FX Plus is encouraging training and employment in Cornwall by supporting 18-year-old Sean Burrows with his T level construction industry placement.

This is a first for the FX Plus Estates team and is also part of the pilot scheme for T levels.

Sarah Roby, FX Plus Estates Director, said: “As one of the main construction clients in Cornwall we are trying to develop much-needed skills and keep talent here. We, as FX Plus, already offer apprenticeships and a variety of in-house training and, when Sean contacted us, thought this would be an excellent route to encourage talent.”

Truro and Penwith College was the only provider in Cornwall chosen to trial the T levels – the equivalent of three A levels – from September last year (2020). Sean is one of the first cohort and, to gain real work experience, has to complete 20% of the course in a placement with an employer.

He said: “I feel very privileged to be with FX Plus and I am planning to extend my work experience because I enjoy it so much.”

During his time with FX Plus, Sean has been shadowing, Anna Foster, Head of Asset Management (Estates). She set out to give Sean as varied an experience as possible and has introduced him to colleagues and external partners, including building and structural surveyors, construction experts and landscape consultants, as well as ensuring he completes courses such as fire safety training.

“I am exposing Sean to a lot of different professions that are associated with the construction industry,” she explained. “I want to show him the variety of careers available.”

As a result of this, Sean has taken a particular interest in mechanical and electrical design and has helped out in a project for outside lighting at the Heart space on Penryn Campus.

“Design really put a light in my eyes,” he said. “I would recommend this T level and work experience to any other students. I am even hoping to come here on my days off from the course in my second year.”