yOung women in construction

Our Transformative Foundation Programme is designed to support young women aged 16–25, particularly those who are NEET or at risk of becoming NEET, to explore and progress towards exciting career opportunities within construction and the wider built environment.

Through mentoring, confidence building, skills development, industry awareness and progression support, the programme aims to help participants explore pathways into areas such as construction, surveying, architecture, construction management and related careers.

Programme Approach

The Transformative Foundation Programme combines practical skills development, academic support, life skills and wellbeing support, all underpinned by mentoring and personal development.

The programme is designed to help young women aged 16–25, particularly those who are NEET or at risk of becoming NEET, explore and progress towards careers within construction and the wider built environment.

Participants will have opportunities to develop essential skills including:

  • Maths and English development.

  • Digital literacy.

  • Teamwork and communication.

  • Problem-solving.

  • Confidence and resilience.

  • Employability skills.

  • Workplace awareness.

Alongside personal development, participants will gain practical insight into the construction industry through activities such as trade tasters, industry engagement, site visits, employer connections and project showcases.

Through guidance, mentoring and access to positive role models, the programme aims to create sustainable pathways into college, apprenticeships, further training and professional careers across areas including construction, surveying, architecture and construction management.

The Transformative Foundation Programme reflects Douglas Skills Trust’s commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion within the built environment sector, supporting young women from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds to develop the confidence, skills and opportunities needed to build successful futures.

architecture

Designing the spaces where people live, work and thrive.

Explore the art, creativity and technical knowledge behind architecture. Discover how architects transform ideas into practical designs, shaping buildings, communities and the spaces around us.

Through creativity, sustainability and innovation, architecture combines imagination with problem-solving to create places that meet the needs of future generations.

surveying

Connecting design, planning and construction through precision and expertise.

Discover how surveying plays a vital role in bringing construction projects to life. Explore how surveyors use measurement, mapping, technology and problem-solving skills to support accurate planning and successful delivery.

From assessing sites and preparing developments to managing information throughout the construction process, surveying helps ensure projects are built safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.

construction management

Leading projects from concept to completion.

Discover how construction projects are planned, coordinated and delivered from start to finish. Explore the role of construction managers in bringing together people, resources, budgets and timelines to successfully deliver projects.

Develop key skills in leadership, organisation, communication and problem-solving while gaining insight into how teams work together to turn designs and plans into real-world outcomes.

Douglas Skills Trust — where young women discover their strength, shape their future, and build what’s possible.