Braeburn Fields Opens Its Gates To Inspire The Next Generation

Dandara welcomed a group of Planning, Design and Construction T-Level students from North Kent College to its Braeburn Fields development in Crowborough, giving them a close-up look at how new homes are built and the wide range of careers within the industry. Eight students and their course tutor visited the site on Friday 7 November as part of Dandara’s ongoing work to support local education, skills and employment pathways.

Senior Site Manager Malcolm Fry, supported by Assistant Site Manager Ollie Brown and Health, Safety and Environment Manager Adam Gibbs, led the tour. After a safety induction, the students were walked through plots at various stages of construction, from early groundwork to nearly completed homes, and had the chance to ask questions about day-to-day operations and different roles on site.

Aged between 16 and 18, the students are in the first year of their two-year T-Level course and came prepared with their own PPE, with additional equipment provided on site where needed. The visit introduced them to key health and safety practices, the sequencing of a build programme and the teamwork involved in delivering a high-quality development.

The tour forms part of a growing partnership between Dandara and North Kent College, which also includes mock interview support and a T-Level industry placement starting early next year. It is one of several education-focused initiatives across the region that aim to strengthen local skills and open the door to construction careers.

Lesley Treacy, Head of ESG at Dandara, said: “These visits are important because they show students what construction really looks and feels like. It’s not something you can learn from a classroom alone. We want young people to see that there are many routes into the industry and that they’re welcome here. Supporting these early steps – whether through site tours, interviews or placements – is a simple way for us to help build confidence and open up opportunities.”

Dandara South East will continue working with North Kent College as the students progress through their course, providing further hands-on opportunities linked to education, skills and social value in the local area.