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Join us for our Abingdon campus open day on Wednesday 11th February, from 3:30 - 7pm!
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11th Feb 2026
Charlie Waite is a Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T-Level student who has embraced every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build industry knowledge, and explore where his future in construction could take him. From site visits and placements to technical drawing and sustainable construction, Charlie’s journey so far reflects his enthusiasm for his study programme.
Throughout his T-Level, Charlie has taken part in a wide range of industry visits and employer-led activities, giving him a realistic insight into life on live construction sites.
A visit to the Trinity House building site with McLaughlin & Harvey left a lasting impression:
“Looking up at the building, I could already sense how Trinity House will blend into its surroundings, balancing modern design with functionality. It’s exciting seeing plans on paper turn into an amazing structure.”
Employer talks have also played a key role in his development as well one-to-one interviews where Charlie was able to share his CV and receive tailored career guidance.
Charlie has taken part in several practical and team-based activities designed to reflect real construction scenarios. During a Kier Construction team-building session, students worked together to solve challenges that tested teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
“The experience helped me understand what’s involved in delivering a large construction project and the range of skills required in the industry.”
He also completed multiple work experience days with Kier Construction, including a visit to HMP Bullingdon Prison, where he observed live site operations, health and safety procedures, and how different trades and teams work together. This helped him prepare for the live project brief that him and his classmates had to work on, to set up a new shopping mall from the ground up, considering budget, roles and responsibilities, location and carbon footprint.
“I had the incredible opportunity to interview with 10 members of the Beard Construction team for our placements, and it was a truly amazing experience. Each conversation offered a unique view into the passion, skill, and dedication that drives their work. From seasoned professionals to newer team members, everyone shared inspiring stories about their journeys in the construction industry.”
Charlie’s placement experience with Beard Construction has been a standout part of his journey so far. He has worked across several sites, including St Catherine’s College, Hertford College, Pusey Lane, and the RAAC roof replacement project in Witney.
Returning to sites for a second time allowed Charlie to see how projects evolve and build on his previous learning. At Hertford College, he engaged with archaeologists and quantity surveyors, studied drawings in detail, and gained insight into working within historically sensitive environments in the heart of Oxford.
“The site and project managers have really improved my understanding of sustainable construction. I’m looking forward to putting everything I’ve learned into practice.”
Alongside his on-site experience, Charlie has been developing his technical skills in college. He has worked extensively on isometric drawings, scale drawings, and room layouts, learning how designers communicate ideas clearly and accurately.
Charlie has also been building strong AutoCAD skills, creating detailed floor plans with a focus on accuracy, scale, and effective space planning.
“The Design, Surveying and Planning T-Level course has given me skills that will stay with me forever.”
Through placements, site visits, technical learning, and employer engagement, Charlie has developed a well-rounded understanding of the construction industry and the pathways available to him.
As he continues his Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T-Level, he is excited to build on his experience, strengthen his design skills, and further explore where his future in construction could lead.
