Foundation Apprentices from our Paisley campus are helping shape the future of the new Paisley Grammar School through a hands-on construction project, supported by Morrison Construction.
Level 5 Foundation Apprentices from our 2025/26 Construction cohort have been involved in designing, building and painting eight outdoor benches, which will form part of the landscape at the new Paisley Grammar School campus when it opens in August.
This project forms part of an ongoing partnership between West College Scotland, Morrison Construction and Renfrewshire Council, giving students valuable real-world construction experience while contributing directly to live community developments.
Morrison Construction has supported the initiative from the outset, with engagement beginning at the start of the academic year. Before our FAs could get to work on the benches, the team at Morrison Construction was presented with two potential designs to choose from. This collaborative approach allowed students to experience the full design and construction journey, from planning and consultation through to manufacture and delivery.
Students dedicated two afternoons each week to the project, applying practical construction skills while working to real deadlines and specifications.
Their team at Morrison Construction has been involved throughout, keeping an eye on the progress of the benches and inviting our Foundation Apprentices to visit the site of the new school on a number of occasions. These visits allowed our FAs to learn more about the construction of the build and hear about the heat and light sources used in the school. The group thoroughly enjoyed seeing the build at different stages and it allowed them to visualise their benches, which will be a great addition to a modern and vibrant learning environment.
After months of hard work, planning, teamwork and craftsmanship, our Foundation Apprentices were able to present the finished benches to Sophie Friel from Morrison Construction and Alan Pearson from Renfrewshire Council. It was a proud day for staff and students alike, and an exciting step in the journey.
Reflecting on the students’ efforts, Sophie from Morrison Construction praised the quality of the finished work and the commitment shown throughout the year:
