Abingdon & Witney College offers funded global placements

Abingdon & Witney College is delivering the global opportunities through the Government-backed Turing Scheme, with placements already completed in St Lucia, Spain and the United States.

The scheme offers students hands-on experience in real-world construction and electrical projects.

Jacqui Canton, principal and chief executive of the college, said: “It’s been wonderful to see the incredible experiences our students have gained through their international work placements under the Turing Scheme.

“These opportunities will stay with them for years to come and make a real difference to their futures.”

In St Lucia, students worked on both commercial and residential developments alongside stone masons, tilers, electricians, and plumbers.

Students also visited Sir Arthur Lewis Community College to learn more about vocational education in a different setting.

Placements in Jerez, Spain, focused on the use of advanced surveying equipment, interpreting technical drawings, and working with Spanish construction teams to build both technical and cross-cultural communication skills. The scheme also promotes social value.

Electrical apprentices in South Carolina completed around $30,000 (£22,357) worth of work with Transitions Homeless Shelter, directly supporting the charity while boosting their trade experience.

Construction students in St Lucia raised more than £2,000 for United Through Sport through charity challenges.

Students reported growth in confidence, independence, teamwork, and communication, as well as practical skills like budgeting and living abroad.

Abingdon & Witney College plans to expand its programme of global partnerships, aiming to make these life-changing opportunities available to more students in the future.