SERC welcomed groups of Year 10 female students from local schools this month for hands-on construction taster sessions aimed at encouraging more young women to consider careers in the built environment.
Organised in partnership with Women’s TEC, the initiative invited students to experience college life, explore specialist facilities, and gain practical insight into construction-related subject choices ahead of selecting their GCSE options.
The students -16 from Forthill Integrated College who visited SERC’s Lisburn Campus, and 16 from Blackwater Integrated College who visited the college’s Downpatrick Campus - took part in interactive taster sessions in Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Surveying, Joinery and Fire & Security or Electrical Installation.
The one-day sessions were designed to challenge traditional perceptions of construction careers by showcasing the range of disciplines available and highlighting the importance of subject selection at Key Stage 4.
Kim McCoy-Johnston, Lecturer, School of the Built Environment at SERC said, “The visits form part of SERC’s ongoing commitment to widening participation and promoting gender diversity in traditionally male-dominated industries.
"Across both campuses, students had the opportunity to explore professional training environments, view specialist equipment, and speak with staff about the wide variety of roles within the construction sector, as well as the subjects that best support progression into these pathways."
Claire King, Women’s TEC said, “The taster days at SERC delivered an amazing experience for the Year 10 girls. Getting the chance to try subjects like joinery and surveying—areas traditionally dominated by boys—was empowering and eye-opening. The sessions showed the girls that these careers are for everyone, and gave them the confidence to explore opportunities they might never have considered before.”
