At B&E Boys, we know that the best way to learn a trade is by rolling up your sleeves and getting hands-on experience. That’s exactly what two talented students from the Salford City College Group, Gracie Swain and Latekqua Barnes-Chambers, are doing on site at St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Ordsall.
Gracie joined the project on 23rd February, following in the footsteps of her fellow student, Latekqua, who has been making waves on site with her Bricklaying Diploma placement. From the moment she arrived, Gracie’s enthusiasm and eagerness to learn have been clear. Working alongside our skilled bricklayers, she’s already applying classroom knowledge to real world construction, gaining confidence and practical skills that will serve her long into her career.
For Latekqua, who has already extended her placement on site, the experience continues to be rewarding. She is keen to see the Key Stage 1 block and other improvements through to completion. Their presence on site not only supports the ongoing development at the school – which includes a new entrance, updated classrooms, and a Multi-Use Games Area – but also showcases the growing role of women in construction.
Following International Women’s Day, it’s inspiring to see young women like Gracie and Latekqua stepping confidently into a sector where they are still underrepresented. Their determination and skill demonstrate that gender is no barrier in construction – what matters is talent, dedication, and a willingness to learn.
Projects like St Joseph’s offer more than technical experience. They provide students with mentorship, insight into professional teamwork, and a real sense of pride in contributing to the local community. Gracie and Latekqua are living examples of how work placements can ignite passion, build skills, and open doors to future opportunities in the industry.
As the project progresses, B&E Boys remains committed to nurturing the next generation of construction professionals. With young talent like Gracie and Latekqua joining the ranks, the future of the industry is not only bright but also increasingly diverse.