Marion Centre students explore careers at the new Velindre Cancer Centre

Students from The Marion Centre at Bishop of Llandaff Church-in-Wales High School in Cardiff enjoyed a visit to the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), where they learned about construction and the careers it offers.

Organised by Careers Wales Business Engagement Advisor, Adrien Cole and supported by Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits Team, the visit welcomed students of varying ages and learning needs. 

Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Coordinator, delivered an interactive presentation introducing students to the history of the project and the journey of the new Velindre Cancer Centre, from the initial planning stages to construction and the vision for the completed facility. Students also discovered the many career opportunities within the construction industry, including roles such as builders, electricians, plumbers, engineers and architects.

A key focus of the session was sustainability, with students learning about innovative construction materials such as hempcrete, timber and gabion stone, alongside the project’s commitment to protecting local wildlife, habitats and biodiversity throughout the build.

Following the presentation, students donned their protective equipment (PPE) and, after a safety briefing, went out for a guided site tour with their teachers and members of the project team. Seeing the construction site in action brought the presentation to life, with students seeing plant machinery, construction activities and environmental protection measures, including wildlife safeguarding and the management of invasive plant species.

The day concluded with an engaging hands-on electrical circuit board demonstration delivered by sub-contractor FP Hurley Electrical, giving students the opportunity to explore practical skills used within the industry.

The visit was a valuable and enjoyable experience, with many students leaving inspired by the range of opportunities available within construction.