CITB-ConstructionSkills Northern Ireland, in conjunction with the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) and Patton Construction recently hosted a site visit and information day for 20 teachers from schools throughout Northern Ireland at the new Belfast Metropolitan College site, Titanic Quarter, Belfast.

The project is planned to open in August 2011, when Belfast Metropolitan College will relocate from two of the College's existing buildings, namely Brunswick Street and College Square East, into the new Titanic Quarter building.

The visit allowed teachers to get first hand information of this innovative project and how it reflects current and ever changing construction methods both in terms of working in partnerships and technological advances. Teachers were also updated on the ever changing career opportunities emerging across the industry.

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Barry Neilson, Chief Executive of CITB-ConstructionSkills Northern Ireland said: "Despite the current economic climate there are key signature construction projects underway in Northern Ireland. By visiting this site these teachers experienced the reality of construction in action and will be able to share their knowledge with pupils when they return to school. We, in conjunction with key partners, constantly strive to raise awareness of the range of opportunities available in the industry and aim to prevent future skills gaps by attracting new recruits in preparation for the upturn."

Vivienne Bannon, CCEA, added: "Working with organisations such as CITB-ConstructionSkills Northern Ireland helps teachers get an insight into various areas of employment outside of the Education sector. The teachers involved can return to the classroom with a renewed enthusiasm and bring relevant up-to-date examples into their teaching. Through engagement with local communities and employers, we can make education real, relevant and enjoyable."

Steve Morris, Senior Site Manager with Patton Construction, the main contractor on the £44 million college added: "We were delighted to host this event and to demonstrate the challenges and construction methodology behind the new build Belfast Metropolitan College at Titanic Quarter. Social sustainability is of great importance to Patton Construction and initiatives such as this only go to support young people who are considering entering the construction industry. We hope that the teachers can pass on what they have gained from their visit to their pupils when they return to the classroom."

(CD)