Beard invests in future talent as Oxford T Level students step into year two

A year-long partnership between Beard and Abingdon & Witney College (AWC) has transformed classroom learning into real-world careers, giving students hands-on experience within the industry.

Beard has supported the full Design, Surveying and Planning in Construction T Level 2025/26 cohort at the Oxfordshire college, delivering more than 800 hours of on-site experience.

Following an exceptional first year, we’re pleased to see three students now progressing into extended placements with the College in year two, focusing on management and design pathways.

The T Level course covers topics including building design and surveying, sustainability, building regulations, health and safety, digital engineering, and project management.

Through weekly placements across Beard sites, students have immersed themselves in live construction projects gaining insight into everything from sustainability and digital engineering to health and safety and project delivery. Students have worked across sites including:

• Abingdon & Witney College, Witney Campus
• St Catherine’s College, Hertford College Library
• St John’s College, Pusey Lane
• The Oxford Trust, Aspen Centre
• Exeter College, window replacement

We have also worked closely with our subcontractors to offer the T Level students chance to see the work of different trades and skills.

The students have been opportunities beyond the curriculum, including leading site visits for Open Doors Week, completing a session on using LinkedIn professionally, and visiting other Beard sites to learn about different projects.

The programme has been coordinated by our Oxford Social Value Coordinator, Rachel Bird, who has worked closely with the College, project teams and supply chain partners to create meaningful workplace experiences for students.

From arranging rotating site placements and introductions to industry professionals through to supporting students' personal development, Rachel has ensured participants gained a broad understanding of careers available across the construction sector.

The partnership marks the first time Beard’s Oxford office has delivered a T Level programme of this scale, building on earlier success in Bristol and reflecting our commitment to developing the next generation of construction professionals.

The programme opens a pathway into the industry, with students able to progress from their T Levels to applying for paid apprenticeships, helping to transform learning into meaningful, long-term careers.

"Rachel has played a key role in its success," Dave added. "Building strong relationships with the College and creating opportunities that have helped students gain valuable industry experience. We're grateful to the team at AWC for their collaboration and look forward to continuing this successful partnership."