Bringing Construction Careers to the Classroom

Over 100 students from Hope Academy in Newton-le-Willows are stepping into the future of construction. Thanks to Parkside Regeneration, a hi-tech simulator is offering Year 9 and 10 pupils hands-on experience in operating diggers and cranes, mirroring roles found on real construction sites.

This initiative is part of Langtree’s broader outreach programme as it prepares for the first phase of development at Parkside—a transformative regeneration project on the site of the former colliery.

Real Skills, Real Opportunities

John Downes, Executive Chairman of Langtree and Parkside Regeneration, explains:

“There will be a wide range of skilled jobs available as Parkside’s first phase is built-out over the next three years, alongside apprenticeships and training opportunities.

“We want as many local people and firms as possible to benefit from our investment and this initiative will show school-leavers the opportunities open to them during the construction phase.”

A former Parkside Colliery trainee himself, Mr Downes highlights the contrast between past and future:

“When I was sixteen, the choice for young people was either the pit or the local glassworks. Parkside will massively increase career options for local young people once it’s up and running,”

Inspiring Engagement through Technology

The simulator, supplied by Civil and Remediation Ltd, allows students to test out various site-based roles in a safe and engaging environment. Teacher Charlie Wignall has been specially trained to help students get the most from the experience, which runs throughout the week.

Amy Green, Assistant Principal at Hope Academy, adds:

“Our pupils go on to pursue a wide range of academic and career options but the sheer variety of jobs in the construction sector is a real eye-opener. The simulator is a valuable and engaging way to provide first hand experience in a safe environment. We expect as many as a hundred pupils to make use of it throughout the week.”

Regeneration that reaches further

Parkside is part of a wider regeneration strategy that prioritises long-term benefits for local people. As Councillor Kate Groucutt, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Business and Inclusive Growth at St Helens Council explains:

“Our regeneration programme is focused on providing real opportunities for residents – not just when projects are completed but throughout the entirety of the schemes. Initiatives such as this are designed to equip young people with practical, real-world skills to prepare them to step into the new roles emerging through the large-scale regeneration that is taking place across the borough.

As well as roles in construction, our long-term vision for Parkside is to help our residents to access rewarding highly skilled careers in areas such as advanced manufacturing and logistics. Through all our projects we remain committed to delivering meaningful social value and laying the foundation for long-term prosperity for our communities.”

A Regeneration with Deep Roots

Parkside Colliery, once employing over 2,000 workers, closed in 1992. Through Parkside Regeneration LLP, a joint venture between Langtree and St Helens Council, the site will once again be a source of opportunity. The completed project is expected to create over 4,000 new jobs across logistics, manufacturing, and supporting industries.

Laying Foundations for Long-Term Impact

This simulator is a practical demonstration of what the Parkside project represents: creating opportunities today that can shape careers and communities for years to come. By introducing young people to real-world roles at the very beginning of the regeneration journey, Langtree and its partners are investing in a future where local talent can thrive.

As development at Parkside continues, this type of engagement will ensure the benefits extend well beyond the construction phase. It will support schools, boost local employment, and help build a stronger, more resilient economy.