A group of Surrey students were joined by Helen Maguire MP as they visited a Dorking construction site to learn about careers in housebuilding.
Twelve young people from Leatherhead and the surrounding areas took a tour of the Sondes Meadows development on 21st July 2026. The visit was organised by training provider MITSkills, in partnership with housebuilder Taylor Wimpey.
The students had the chance to experience a live construction environment, meet professionals with experience across the housebuilding industry and gain an insight into the diverse roles and skills needed to build a modern development.
Mrs Maguire, MP for Epsom and Ewell, joined the students to get a first hand look at the work that Taylor Wimpey and MITSkills are carrying out in her constituency.
She said: “It was fantastic to meet such a talented group of young people and see first-hand the opportunities this partnership is creating for them. Programmes like this are crucial in helping our young people discover careers with longevity close to home, and I’m grateful to MITSkills and Taylor Wimpey for the work they’re doing to make that possible.”
MITSkills provides training for young people across Surrey and West London. The company has partnered with Taylor Wimpey and local schools, as well as The Link Centre 2030 CIC, KBR, Kier Construction, Clarion Futures and the Rotary Club, to deliver a construction careers programme for local students.
Hani Zubeidi, Operations Director at MITSkills, said: “We are absolutely delighted to provide this valuable opportunity to young people. The visit to the construction site at Sondes Meadows demonstrates Taylor Wimpey’s commitment to investing in local communities and supporting the next generation of construction professionals.
“Through this programme, participants will gain practical experience, industry-recognised knowledge and greater awareness of the exciting career opportunities available within the construction sector. We hope this initiative will inspire young people to consider apprenticeships, T Levels and further education routes that can lead to rewarding and fulfilling careers.”
Taylor Wimpey is creating a number of sustainable new communities in and around Surrey. Sondes Meadows, which launched for sale in May 2026, will comprise a mix of one to five-bedroom homes, providing options for a wide range of buyers, from first-time to downsizers. The development will also include designated pedestrian and cycle paths, as well as play areas.
Ivor Richards, Interim Production Director for Taylor Wimpey South Thames, said: “Housebuilding offers a wide range of rewarding careers, some of which people may not expect. It’s therefore really important for us to speak to young people about the opportunities that housebuilding can create, and to try to inspire them to take their first steps onto the career ladder.
“As an employer we take pride in helping people to learn new skills, unlock their potential and build a career that lasts. Our team loved meeting the students that visited Sondes Meadows and we are grateful to MITSkills for the chance to be involved in their journey”.
