OCL’s pioneering “Girls can Build” programme has won the 2024 Inspiring Change in Education category at the Supply Chain Sustainability School (UK) Inspiring Change Conference and Awards.

The programme, which started in May, involved six primary schools across Basildon. Over the course of eight weeks, women from the OCL team conducted 13 sessions, including assemblies and classroom activities. Girls in years 3-6 had the opportunity to wear hard hats and hi-vis vests as they took on roles such as Project Managers, leading a bridge-building challenge. They also participated in PPE challenges, job role activities, and interactive Q&A sessions with the OCL team.  This initiative not only highlights the possibilities within the construction industry but also aims to plant the seeds of curiosity and ambition in young girls, paving the way for a more diverse future in construction.

A representative of OCL said: “This award gives huge recognition to the women at OCL behind the programme, which has already inspired so many girls. We were very proud that the room was in awe of our programme and the positivity shared with us was incredible.”

The Inspiring Change Awards recognise organisations in the sector that can demonstrate they value and promote inclusion and diversity in the workplace and wider community. The awards highlight organisations that understand the broad scope of diversity, nurture a culture of fairness, inclusion, and respect, and have taken active steps to ensure equal opportunity in how they operate. The Inspiring Change in Education Award celebrates organisations and projects that have, within the past 2 years, implemented an initiative to work with schools or colleges to help address educational inequalities by encouraging young people to enhance their skills and achieve their potential.

To find out more about the “Girls can Build” programme visit: www.ocl.london/girls-can-build-programme-inspires-over-700-school-girls-in-eight-weeks

www.ocl.london