Creation of bespoke training courses for Kier staff
When construction company case-studies/Kier wanted to improve the training they offer their workforce, they contacted Sheffield Hallam University. We created new courses specifically for their staff.
Kier wanted to develop their employees’ knowledge and encourage progression in the company.
Kier got in touch with our Department of Built Environment. Together we designed four new courses to give Kier a more knowledgeable and better qualified workforce – using work-based earning to give staff a deeper understanding of the industry.
The courses were tailor-made to suit the Kier’s specific requirements, using case studies and examples from the workplace, and encouraging group discussion and sharing ideas among staff.
They are
• Foundation Degree in Construction
Management
• Foundation Degree in Integrated
Maintenance and Facilities Services
• BSc (Honours) Construction and
Commercial Management
• BSc (Honours) Integrated Maintenance and Facilities Services
Kier staff on the courses attend four one-week residential blocks a year at the University, as well as carrying out study in their workplace. They gain a sound technical and academic education to further their career in the construction industry.
In November 2012 all 30 employees on the top-up award graduated with a BSc (Honours) Construction and Commercial Management –including four with a first-class honours degree. We continue to work with the Kier on a knowledge transfer project, drawing on the practical experience gained through real-life industrial projects to add to the curriculum for Kier staff courses and future wider CPD packages.
Steve Musson, planner at Kier construction and foundation degree graduate said;
‘The course has given me a foundation in commercial awareness, contract law, mechanical and electrical design and the principles of engineering which I have been able to put into practice in my workplace.’
Kay Rogan, foundation degree manager at Kier said;
‘Our relationship with Sheffield Hallam is very much a partnership. We work closely with University staff to continually improve the programme and to ensure the process runs smoothly. The programme has proved to be successful and highly respected within the Kier group, with the individuals making a real difference at work. The combination of real work experience and academic study is enabling them to have an input to the success of the business right from the early stages of their careers.’
