Messenger is proud to support North Northamptonshire Council and Moulton College in delivering a unique work experience opportunity for students, as part of ongoing works to replace the library roof at Cornerstone in Kettering.
Working alongside North Northamptonshire Council, we welcomed stonemasonry students on site to gain hands-on experience across two of Kettering’s most significant heritage buildings: Kettering Library and the Alfred East Art Gallery. The initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing traditional skills while helping to safeguard the future of the heritage sector.
The placements are designed to build confidence, strengthen technical skills and open pathways into employment across the heritage, culture, tourism and construction sectors. By facilitating real-world learning opportunities, Messenger continues to champion meaningful on-site experiences that allow students to apply their training in a live conservation environment.
‘With traditional trades like stonemasonry, real life opportunities like this are invaluable for students and I am so pleased we were able to facilitate getting Moulton College pupils on site.
The Culture, Tourism and Heritage team are looking to build on this further – working closely with further and higher education providers across the local area to create meaningful personal and professional development opportunities across the service.
Whilst work continues on site it is great that, like with our Heritage Open Days event last year, we are able to take this opportunity to give a unique perspective, whilst helping students learn and prepare for the future.’
Cllr Greg Wilcox, the council’s Executive Member for Communities
‘Work experience placements such as this so important for our students. Whilst we can teach them skills and knowledge at college, nothing beats real site experience. We are extremely grateful to both North Northamptonshire Council and Messenger for working with us on this project.’
Richard Ball, Head of Faculty – Construction Trades and Heritage Skills at Moulton College
‘It’s been a real pleasure welcoming the Moulton College students on site and seeing first-hand their enthusiasm for heritage work. These buildings are an important part of Kettering’s story, and giving students the chance to work on them helps connect traditional skills with the next generation of craftspeople. At Messenger, we’re passionate about protecting historic buildings and just as committed to securing the future of heritage trades by investing in hands-on training and meaningful opportunities like this.’
Wayne Gray, Messenger Site Manager
While construction work progresses, the library remains temporarily relocated to the upper floor of the modern extension of Cornerstone. The library team continues to provide a full range of services and group activities for the community throughout the project.