A HOUSEBUILDER with several developments across Maldon is encouraging students to take up work in the housing industry.

Taylor Wimpey is building more than 600 houses in the area.

The company is offering support to students at Plume Academy to help shape their careers.

The Limebrook Way and Handley Gardens developer delivered a keynote speech to Year 12 students on apprenticeships.

Carl Wakefield, principal at Plume Academy, said the students gained a lot from the experience.

He said: “We were delighted to host Taylor Wimpey for our careers day.

“Students in Year 12 are often thinking about the next steps they would like to take after finishing further education.”

He said it was an eye-opener for some students who had not considered looking at the housing industry as a career option.

He said: “For the land team to organise such an informative, interactive day was a fantastic opportunity for our students to consider options they may not have been aware were available, without the advice given by Taylor Wimpey.”

The team then held workshops for students which involved learning vital construction skills such as teamwork, attention to detail and forward planning.

The students enjoyed taking part in the physical and mental challenges.

David Burns, senior land manager at Taylor Wimpey East London, said it was a successful event.

He said: “The team was really proud to be able show the students what a career in construction has to offer.

“It was great to see them get stuck into the tasks we set, such as mock interviews and tower building.

“There are many opportunities available to students once they finish their time at school and we hope by talking about the apprenticeships we offer we have given them a lot to think about when planning careers.”