United Through Sport was proud to welcome eight students from Abingdon & Whitney College in Oxford to Saint Lucia for a two-week international construction experience in partnership with Blueprint Construction.
This collaboration highlights how global partnerships can provide students with real-world experience while supporting industry development overseas.
Real-World Construction Experience in Rodney Bay
During their stay, students were based at the Bay Gardens Beach Resort, where they contributed to the development of luxury apartment blocks in Rodney Bay.
Working on an active construction site, they gained hands-on experience across key areas such as carpentry, tiling, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning work, and electrical work. By shadowing experienced local professionals, students were able to assist with daily tasks while developing practical and industry-relevant skills.
International Learning Beyond the Classroom
International placements offer far more than technical training. They provide an opportunity for personal growth and cultural understanding.
Throughout the two-week programme, students stepped outside their comfort zones and adapted to new environments. Working with new people helped them build confidence, improve communication skills, and gain insight into how construction practices differ around the world.
For many students, the experience not only strengthened their technical ability but also helped shape their future career ambitions within the industry.
A Transformative Experience
Staff from Abingdon & Whitney College reflected on the impact of the programme:
“Our experience with United Through Sport through the Turing Scheme has been truly transformative. Through meaningful cultural exchange and a high-quality international work placement, our students grew in confidence, skills and resilience while forming lasting friendships. Working alongside UTS in Saint Lucia demonstrated the real power of collaboration and giving back. This is international placement at its very best.”
Exploring the Culture of Saint Lucia
Alongside their placement, students also explored the island and immersed themselves in local culture.
Highlights included:
- Learning about the history of Saint Lucia at Pigeon Island
- Climbing to the Historical Forts
- Visiting Soufriere, home to waterfalls and salt baths
- Spending time with other volunteers at a beach BBQ and in-house quiz night
- Participating in our spring Miles for Smiles fundraiser
Looking Ahead
As the programme continues, United Through Sport is looking forward to welcoming a second group of ten students from the college in the coming weeks.
At United Through Sport Saint Lucia, we are proud to deliver programmes that go beyond sport, creating opportunities for skill development, cultural exchange, and meaningful impact within local communities every step of the way.