Stockwell students' mock charity interviews
Colleagues from construction company Kier recently visited a Stockwell school to take part in Spark Charity's mock interview day.
Devoting three hours to the initiative, the Kier team – from its residential and building solutions business, Kier Places, - engaged in mock interviews with students at Lansdowne School. The school caters to young individuals with autism, communication difficulties, speech and language delays, and associated learning difficulties.
Tailoring their approach to each student's unique needs, the Kier team used prompt cards with icons to represent questions and suggested answers.
Despite having unfamiliar faces in their safe school environment, all students actively participated, sharing their interests, hobbies, and aspirations for a future career.
Eva Butterworth, SEND and AP Programme Manager at Spark Charity, said:
“We had the pleasure of running a mock interview session at Lansdowne School. Students practiced their communication skills and professionalism, impressing everyone with their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. It’s incredible to see the growth in confidence and skills when young people are given the right support and opportunities. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers for sharing their expertise with those who need it most.”
Hannah Sullivan, environmental advisor at Kier Places, said:
“It was such a rewarding day for all involved. I feel very proud of each of the students for grasping the opportunity and taking part with such energy and enthusiasm. As well as building confidence, I hope they feel a real sense of achievement, and I’m now looking forward to hearing about how the students put their new skills in to practice!”
Kier is partnering with housing association, L&Q, to install new kitchens and bathrooms and replace roofs and windows across East London and Romford. They’re also carrying out surveys to look at how they can upgrade the energy efficiency of residents’ homes. They are one of 10 partners working on L&Q’s major works investment programme, which will see the organisation invest around £3bn over 15 years to improve the safety, comfort and environmental performance of residents’ homes.
Mark Newstead, Director of Major Programmes at L&Q, added:
"This initiative embodies the community spirit of our major works investment programme. It's not just about construction: it's about building connections, nurturing potential, and making a positive impact in the communities where residents live.
“Thank you to our Kier Places colleagues for their dedication to supporting the growth and development of these remarkable young individuals. Together, we're creating pathways for success beyond the construction site. This heartwarming collaboration reflects our commitment to creating lasting, positive change within the communities we serve, as part of our Social Value work.”