Turing Scheme Construction Program
Fully-funded programmes abroad in 2024
Welcome to Kaya’s Construction Abroad Programme – as part of the UK government’s Turing Scheme.
This project is established for the purpose of offering training for Vocational and Further Education students in the fields of construction and engineering. The programme will offer a 16 day (including travel) training schedule within a choice of these two projects focusing on different aspects of construction. Training will be delivered by professionals within these fields and utilise existing training programs that have been developed specifically for the purposes of training individuals interested in these areas.
Participants on this project will have the opportunity to further their classroom-based learning by living within a unique new environment as they learn about different construction techniques, and engage in sustainable building practices.
Activities will include:
- Attending training programs teaching students about theory and techniques used in these different locations, taught by local professionals.
- Working with local NGOs on social building projects, learning about the challenges of traditional construction in rural communities.
- Engaging with local staff at each site to learn more about the local approach to construction development and management issues, but also how cultural factors affect the way that they work
- Working alongside other students to collaborate on projects and, in doing so, providing the experience of participation in teamwork within this career.
Programs will be offered in 2 countries. These are as follows:
12 spaces will be available for this trip with a departure date in April 2024. (exact dates to be confirmed)
(departure and return dates may vary by approximately 4 days depending on flights schedules.)
1. Zambia Construction
This construction training program will take place over a 2 week period (16 days including travel).
This program introduces students to basic construction, welding and carpentry techniques, as well as waste management, within the framework of a developing country.
We will also cover environmental issues affecting the living conditions of people in Zambia and involve the students in upcycling/recycling workshops.
The students will be involved in the following activities:
- Introduction to building techniques – students will learn how to make cement and Eco Bricks, how to plaster and how to construct simple walls.
- Welding workshops – students will be introduced to welding and glass cutting techniques.
- Carpentry workshops – students will learn about the different types of carpentry work, and help create building materials.
- Building work-students will create new, useful structures out of Eco Bricks
- In the evenings there will be time to explore more of Zambian culture, star gaze, learn some of the local language and reflect upon the day’s activities.
17 spaces will be available for this location with departure date in April 2024, and 16 spaces in August 2024. (exact dates to be confirmed).
(departure and return dates may vary by approximately 4 days depending on flight schedules.)
2. Ecuador Construction
Location: Atandahua, Guaranda, Bolivar province
Embark on a transformative 2-week adventure in Atandahua, Guaranda, the heart of the Bolivar Province of Ecuador! This construction training program transcends traditional boundaries, immersing participants in the rich tapestry of a small indigenous community.
The journey begins with a beacon of hope—a local organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development in low-income rural communities. Despite the lack of material wealth, these communities exude warmth, cultural vibrancy, and ecological diversity. The mission is clear: to blend traditional building design and techniques with social housing, preserving both architectural beauty and cultural heritage.
Under the guidance of professional architects and local builders, students will revitalize traditional adobe houses, providing joy to their inhabitants and transforming them for the use of future visitors, creating new sources of income for local families. This hands-on experience imparts practical skills and instills a profound understanding of the challenges faced by locals.
As part of the training program, students will delve into the technologies and methodologies of sustainable habitat development, focusing on adobe construction. Example activities abound, from hands-on Adobe and Clay Work, crucial for traditional construction techniques, to Collaborative Building, where students work alongside local builders, honing skills in carpentry, plumbing, and other crafts. This is an unparalleled journey where education meets cultural immersion, and the impact is measured not just in structures built but in lives enriched.
Evenings and weekends are not just about construction; they are filled with cultural immersion. Students will be housed at the local school nearby, with access to the community house next door, providing the perfect opportunity to engage in community sports, participate in local schools, and enjoy cooking classes showcasing the region’s culinary delights.
Participants will also explore local attractions such as the Chimborazo volcano, Ecuador’s highest mountain, and Salinas de Guaranda, renowned for their delectable chocolate and cheese. These excursions deepen the understanding of the environment and community engagement in the area.
At each location, students will be staying in group accommodation and participating in hands-on training within each working area. The aim of this programme is to provide students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and practical skills, while learning about different cultures and environments to expand horizons and develop educated, compassionate global citizens.
All flights will depart from and return to a UK airport, and students will need to make their own arrangements for travel to and from home to the airport.
Covid Considerations
COVID vaccination and testing requirements will be dependent on each country. Face masks and social distancing could still be in place, dependent on local rules and laws. We will advise closer to departure.
Application criteria
The Turing scheme aims to offer this opportunity to a broad range of students and, while we are looking for students studying related subjects, application evaluation is not based on your grades! We are looking for enthusiastic pupils aged 16+ who have an interest in Wildlife management and related subjects. The scheme is fully funded by the UK government, so there will be no cost incurred other than a £250 confirmation fee for successful applicants.
Application process
- Click the button below to access the application form – this application form will be the only requirement for consideration for this program
- If you are successful with your application, we strongly advise you look into visa requirements straight away.
- A board of administrators will evaluate all applications to select successful applicants on a rolling basis, so we encourage early application.
- Once successful candidates have been notified, a £250 confirmation fee will be required within the following 2 weeks to confirm the placement (hardship grants will be offered to cover this cost where applicable)
- As part of this program, students will be expected to complete some pre-departure assignments, including online attendance at a pre-departure workshop.
- Flights from the UK Airport will be provided as part of the program, and students will be required to make their own way to the airport on departure, and home from the airport on our return.
If you change your mind about participating for any reason not covered by the insurance, we will do our best to identify an individual to take your place. If one is found, the non-transferable costs (such as the airline cost for changing the name of the traveller, or the new travel insurance policy) will need to be paid by you.If a replacement is not found, then the cost of the non-recoverable costs of the flights and the programme will become your responsibility and those costs will need to be paid by you, because the Turing scheme will not make payment for individuals who drop out of the programme before travelling. These costs could be £2500+ .
Please only pay the deposit if you intend to travel. Make sure that you are available for the dates of your programme and are committed to participating to avoid any extra costs.
Application deadline
For February departure, the application deadline is 31 October 2023
For April & August departure, the application deadline is 30 November 2023