Bassingbourn Village College students take on Hub Challenge

The students visited the company's Hitchin office for the Hub Challenge, where they took part in five days of assessment-style activities.

The programme aimed to give students a taste of the construction industry by focusing on developing communication, problem-solving, presentation and teamwork skills.

More than 40 Willmott Dixon employees got involved throughout the week to offer guidance and insights.

Bassingbourn Village College students took part in the Willmott Dixon Hub Challenge (Image: Willmott Dixon)

Natalie Sidey, Willmott Dixon social value manager, said: "We are incredibly proud of the success of The Hub Challenge, a five-day event packed with assessment-style activities designed to enhance students' communication, problem-solving, presentation, and teamwork skills.

"Throughout the week, more than 40 of our team members engaged with the students, providing invaluable insights and fostering a supportive environment for learning and growth. 

"Students also had the opportunity to network with our supply chain partners during a dedicated session, broadening their understanding of the industry and making important connections." 

The week culminated in a finale where five student teams presented their 'community hub' projects to a panel of three judges.

Their presentations covered costs, marketing and communications, design, sustainability and social value.

Each team showcased their creativity and strategic thinking by explaining their design choices, community engagement plans and budget management.

Natalie added: "Engaging with local students and helping them build essential skills is a core part of our mission.

"The Hub Challenge not only introduced students to the various elements involved in construction but also provided a platform to develop key life skills such as presentation, networking, and teamwork.

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"We are thrilled with the students' enthusiasm and the innovative ideas they brought to the table." 

The Hub Challenge is part of Willmott Dixon's aim to provide social value and community engagement, working to foster the next generation of industry leaders.

Bassingbourn Village College is part of Anglian Learning. According to the school's website, its goal is "To nurture individuals to have high aspirations, a love of learning and to become confident, responsible, respectful, resilient, healthy and independent members of society prepared for life and work."