A Derbyshire teenager, who gives up his own time to help teach youngsters  building techniques, hopes to cement a career in construction now that he has joined a brickwork course at Chesterfield College.



Eighteen-year-old Liam Hughes, from Barrowhill, volunteers every week at a construction project, run by Groundwork Creswell, which is giving him the opportunity to help school children learn new skills on site.

Liam said that before joining the scheme called ‘Step Up’, which aims to improve job prospects for 16-19 years olds, he was frustrated to have “nothing to do and no goal.”

By taking part, Liam earned himself a skills licence, which means he is now trained in first aid and fire marshalling for his mentoring role.

Liam enrolled on the Brickwork course along with six other lads from the Step Up scheme this month and is already impressing lecturers with his attitude.

Liam’s Brickwork tutor Stephen Ridgley said, “I think Liam has the ideal balance of learning a trade in College, and using his knowledge in the real world as a volunteer. It’s also commendable that he’s helping to assure the next generation of construction professionals by sharing his enthusiasm with school children.”

Liam added, “The work I do now is voluntary, but I don’t mind that I don’t get paid because I’m always busy, I’m learning new skills and helping other young people too.

“I’m hoping to one day work in the construction industry and the qualifications and skills I achieve will help me do this. I have met new friends; feel happier and so much more confident than I did when I finished school.”