Next generation gets solid foundation

PlaceMakers is committed to helping train the next generation of builders and its Kopu branch is taking that backing to the next level, through its support of Hauraki Plains College’s building and construction programme.

The college, in the rural town of Ngatea, is proud to offer senior students a hands-on building and construction course.

“The programme begins in Year 10, when students are given the opportunity to develop their elementary workshop processes,” explains programme instructor Peter Carpenter. “As they progress through Year 11 and 12, students have the opportunity to gain the National Certificate in Building Construction and Allied Trade Skills (BCATS) Level 2 and, in Year 13, to complete Level 3 apprenticeship theory units.

“In 2012, as part of the Year 13 programme, we constructed a 120m², three-bedroom house and the exercise proved to be invaluable for the students. They also gained ‘real world’ insight into product manufacturing and development through site visits to Winstone, James Hardie, PlaceMakers F&T and a number of others.”

“A big part of the house project is the partnership we’ve developed with PlaceMakers in Kopu. John McGill and Paul Kerr have been invaluable in giving their time and effort to ensure these projects are a success” – Building and construction programme Peter Carpenter

Peter says the opportunity to put the theory they had learned into practice was both a skill and confidence-building exercise so they plan to make it part of the curriculum every year – and he greatly appreciates the support from PlaceMakers Kopu.

“Paul, in particular, has been instrumental in getting suppliers and manufacturers on board with the supply of materials and industry visits. Hauraki Plains College is proud to be associated with PlaceMakers Kopu!”