As a company we are deeply committed to advancing sustainable construction, I’m thrilled to share what unfolded during one of our recent “Get Ready for Careers in Eco Renovation” courses, run in partnership with The King’s Trust.
Reflections on Our “Get Ready for Careers in Eco Renovation” Course with The King’s Trust
This five-day program was designed to introduce young people to the transformative world of retrofit, equipping them with the foundational knowledge and enthusiasm to kickstart their journeys in this vital field.
Our mission with this course is clear: to provide an accessible, engaging pathway into the retrofit sector for young people, many of whom had no prior experience. The results from this session left us inspired and even more dedicated to scaling this initiative.
Day-by-Day Highlights from the Course
Day 1: Setting the Stage
We began by welcoming participants into the fold, setting out clear expectations, and introducing them to the week ahead. After some icebreakers, they were divided into project groups based on housing archetypes, such as Victorian terraces or mid-century semis. Discussions quickly turned lively as they explored common problems in homes – like dampness and draughts – and began recognising how retrofit can provide solutions.
Day 2: Understanding the Why and How
Participants delved into why retrofit matters, exploring the UK’s energy landscape and the environmental and economic drivers behind energy efficiency. The highlight of the day was learning how to conduct a basic retrofit survey. With models of different house types and construction elements, they identified key features and discussed the types of data professionals collect.
Day 3: Solutions in Action
Practical exercises brought the content to life. The group explored materials for insulation and airtightness, then participated in a hands-on airtightness exercise. By the end of the day, each group had started drafting a retrofit plan tailored to their project house. Watching participants debate the pros and cons of different solutions was a testament to their growing confidence.
Day 4: Navigating Regulations and Ensuring Quality
This day focused on the “rules of the game.” Participants engaged with building regulations, health and safety considerations, and quality assurance frameworks like PAS2035. They also learned the importance of planning and phasing work effectively. These sessions often sparked detailed discussions, underscoring how complex—yet manageable—retrofit projects can be.
Day 5: Bringing It All Together
On the final day, participants consolidated their learning by presenting their retrofit plans. They also explored the human side of retrofit, discussing customer motivations, communication strategies, and ways to manage disruption during projects. The reflections and evaluations at the end were genuinely moving; many participants expressed excitement about pursuing careers in the sector.
Why This Matters So Much
Reflecting on this course, I’m struck by its dual impact: equipping young people with practical knowledge while igniting their passion for tackling climate change through retrofit. These participants are not just learning skills; they’re stepping into a field with the potential to transform homes, communities, and our environment.
For funders, supporting this course means:
- Investing in future talent: Participants leave with a clear sense of direction and a pathway into a high-demand industry.
- Addressing a critical skills gap: The retrofit sector needs motivated professionals, and this course is is encouraging new professionals to start on their journey.
- Promoting sustainability: Every new retrofit professional contributes to reducing carbon emissions and improving housing stock.
Looking Ahead
Each course we run reinforces our belief that retrofit education is critical to achieving the UK’s sustainability goals. Many of our participants from this session are already pursuing further training or apprenticeships. With the support of funders and partners like The King’s Trust, we can expand this program and reach even more young people.
If you’re inspired by what you’ve read, consider joining us on this journey. By supporting “Get Ready for Careers in Eco Renovation,” you’re helping to build not only careers but also a sustainable future.