The launch of our Construction Academy in Walker!

At the start of 2026 we launched our first Construction Academy sessions at our Walker Centre. Please watch the video below to see what they have been up to!

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Day in the Life at the Construction Academy from a young person 

“Every week when I come into the construction room, I know we’ll be doing something new, which makes it exciting. At the start of each session, we get shown how to do something new, and then we get to try it ourselves. 

I like that we do something different every time because it never gets boring. My favourite thing we’ve done so far is welding the copper pipes with a blow torch. I didn’t think I’d ever get to use something like that, but I did and it actually worked!” 

- Holly, age 9, Walker Newcastle  

In action - welding together copper pipes

In late January, we launched our new initiative: The Construction Academy. The idea grew from the enthusiasm we saw during our AGM event, where young people took part in a bricklaying activity inspired by building Hadrian’s Wall. It was clear there was real interest in construction-based activities. 

Where it all started! Our Hadrian’s Wall build at the AGM, which inspired us to create the Construction Academy.

We developed a six-week Construction Academy programme. The aim was to give young people a hands-on introduction to the construction industry for free.  

Young people learning real bricklaying techniques through hands-on experience, laying bricks and applying mortar

Over the course, a group of eight young people, gained experience in a range of practical skills including bricklaying, drilling and fixing, plumbing, and basic electrics. Each session was designed to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and develop real life skills.  

In the end, the young builders made their own fully functional bedside lamps and, upon completing the course, received a Kids Kabin Construction Academy Certification. To celebrate their achievements and support their next steps, we have received 10 toolboxes from Jewson Partnership Solutions which we are excited to present to each graduate. With a toolbox to take home they will have a chance to continue building on the skills they’ve developed during the programme.

With their new skills and certification, we have offered the young builders the opportunity to help build an outdoor kitchen for Solidarity Farm!

The new tool boxes each student will receive!

"I first learned about Construction Academy when I came to Kids Kabin to get my bike fixed and I saw other kids working with the blow torches and I knew that I wanted to have a go.

The construction session have helped me think about what I want to do after I finish school."

-Chrissy, age 13, Walker Newcastle 

Our next Construction Academy sessions will start in May and we are excited to see what they build next!