Over the spring and summer terms, our Year 7 students at Bedford Academy had a unique opportunity to witness the construction of our new community building first-hand, thanks to the incredible support from ASHE Construction Group. This exciting development on our school grounds is not just transforming our facilities but has also enriched our students' learning in remarkable ways.

Each week, tutor groups from Year 7 took part in guided site visits, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the various stages of a live construction project. From learning about foundational work and structural design to understanding the roles and responsibilities of different trades on site, students experienced a real-world encounter with the construction industry.

These visits sparked curiosity, encouraged questions, and provided our young learners with an early insight into potential future careers. It was an invaluable employer encounter, bringing classroom learning to life and aligning perfectly with our commitment to broadening horizons.

In July, our Year 12 students also had the chance to visit the site, rounding off a fantastic series of visits before the building opens in September.

We are incredibly grateful to the ASHE team for their generosity, enthusiasm, and commitment to education throughout this project. Their support has created opportunities that go beyond the classroom and have made a lasting impression on our students.

We are excited to open the doors of our new building this September, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Bedford Academy and our wider community. Partnerships like this one with ASHE are a testament to what can be achieved when industry and education work hand in hand to inspire the next generation.