Primary students at The Stephen Longfellow Academy undertook a workshop with Willmott Dixon on 29 June 2026. The main aim of the workshop was to introduce the world of construction to our students and also challenge stereotypes about the industry.
The workshop was hands on with children designing and building structures and took place across the day. Students were given information about construction roles in a very simplified manner.
Feedback from students
The workshop was enjoyed by all students and engagement was very high. Below are a few comments from the Primary students.
“I really liked drawing and building my bridge”. Year 6 student
“Thank you it was fun.” Year 6 Student
“I enjoyed it” Year 5 student
Feedback from class teacher
“I think the student interaction across phase during this workshop was incredible. The children interacted and engaged throughout, particularly from some pupils in year 5 and 6. Questions that were asked by the children were appropriate and showed their curiosity and interests towards the job role, wage, working hours and different positions within Willmott Dixon. The children were polite and eager to share their ideas/questions.
Year 2/3 pupils found it slightly harder to engage in the theory side of the workshop when introducing and explaining who Willmott Dixon are, but this was handled and able to be turned around massively during the practical. The children across phase loved designing their own bridge, logo then bringing it to life with Lego. Workshop- Interesting, practical, realistic.” Temi Wright (Teacher of Primary)
Feedback from facilitator
“This morning was fabulous. Great levels of engagement, behaviour on point and some excellent questions asked. Students were involved and engaged with everything, and a brilliant time was had. Thank you to the teaching staff for their support during as well.” Vickie Thornton (Social Value Manager – Willmott Dixon)
We would like to say a huge thank you Vickie Thornton (Social Value Manager) from Willmott Dixon for delivering the inspirational workshop to our students, we have also shared any feedback with Wilmott Dixon who have agreed to take these changes on board for future sessions.
Raj Gill (Director of Careers)