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Robertson Generate Over £1m In Social Value Supporting Students At Newcastle College

Procure Partnerships Framework Contractor Partner Robertson has handed over a £3m programme of refurbishment works, which includes major upgrades across four Newcastle College Group campuses.

The project was secured via the Procure Partnerships North East Framework.

The works focused on the improvement of existing facilities with WC refurbishments, extensive remodelling of classrooms to provide a modern environment for students, improvement in the energy performance of the buildings with LED lighting upgrades, BMS upgrades, replacement boilers, pump sets and chillers, upgrade of air conditioning systems and the introduction of a secure entry system with the installation of turnstiles, a modernised access controls system and CCTV.

Despite having to take into consideration the ever-changing Covid-19 guidelines, including a surprise return to campus from students, Robertson still managed to support the local community and economy through sustaining local employment, supply chain engagement and supporting the college student and teaching community during this tough time.

A total of £1,405,630 was generated in social value on the scheme, made up of both social and economic impact. Many initiatives such as virtual work experience programmes to support bricklaying students and virtual employer support sessions for other students throughout the college took place to keep them engaged during the pandemic.

Level three electrical engineering students were also supported through physical work experience and site visits once restrictions were lifted. Ten local employees sustained employment, one apprentice was employed full time by Robertson and over 900 hrs of support were given to the students.

Garry Hope, Regional Managing Director at Robertson, commented: “Carrying out such a large number of projects over multiple sites is always challenging and requires excellent planning and communication between all stakeholders which was achieved on this programme of works – this was key to its success.”

Thomas Ferry, Careers Consultant at Newcastle College, commented: “The partnership between Newcastle College and Robertson has been invaluable during the lockdown. Robertson has gone above and beyond to provide quality and engaging virtual work experience with our students to help educate, inspire, and give them skills and guidance for their future careers. It’s great to work with a company that truly wants to help the next generation of young tradespeople.”

Faye Dolan, National Framework Manager, Procure Partnerships Framework: “Under the Procure Partnerships Framework, Robertson have successfully delivered this diverse set of projects for the Newcastle College Group. Robertson have successfully complete numerous improvement project across multiple Newcastle College sites, carrying out a variety of different works.”


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