Two West Nottinghamshire College students have been putting lessons they’re learning in the classroom into practice, thanks to placements working on the project to bring Nottinghamshire’s first Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) to Mansfield.

Niall Clapperton, of Sutton, and Liam Armstrong, of Ollerton, Niall and Liam are among the first students on the college’s new T-Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for the Construction Industry course, and will complete 45 days at the centre, which is being built on the Mansfield Community Hospital site.

They are gaining hands-on experience in construction and project management through a partnership between building contractor Kier, project management company Pulse Management, and the college.

Once fully operational, the centre will provide faster access to vital tests and help to reduce hospital waiting times.

Since joining the CDC project, Niall and Liam have already practised quantity surveying, land surveying, and overall project management.

Niall said: “This is my first time on a proper construction site, and it’s been such a valuable experience. I appreciate the balance between what we’re learning in the classroom and what we’re doing during the placement.”

Liam added: “The best part has definitely been the people, I’ve learned so much by working alongside them, and everyone has been supportive and ready to help. It feels great to gain real-life experience on the job, and I’m excited to continue learning.”

Each week, Niall and Liam divide their time between three days at college and one day on-site, with their time on-site increasing as the project progresses.

Dr James Thomas, the clinical lead for the project at Sherwood Forest Hospitals, said: “We’re thrilled to support the next generation by giving them real-world learning experiences.”

Andrew Stevens, head of Building Services and Professional Studies in Construction at the college, said Niall and Liam were making excellent progress on their course and applying their knowledge on an important project.

“Working on the Mansfield CDC is a fantastic opportunity and the ideal springboard towards an apprenticeship or employment,” he added.