Building International Links: French Carpentry Students Take on Chichester College Challenge  

The Construction team at Chichester College opened its workshop doors to 24 carpentry students from French school Lycée du Bois during a skills-focused study visit to England.  

During their visit, construction lecturer Ivor Osbourne gave them a tour of the college and set them the challenge of building a wooden model of a house to a set of stringent specifications.  

As part of a wider visit to discover the South of England, the ‘Wood and Housing Construction Systems’ apprentices were welcomed into one of the college’s specialist workshops, where each student’s skills were put to the test as they working as a team and exchanging in English throughout the challenge.  

Visits like this allow the students to broaden their industry knowledge and provide international experience, whilst helping the college strengthen its global partnerships, promote cultural exchange and showcase its high-quality construction and carpentry courses.  

It also provided a valuable opportunity for both students and staff to share knowledge, exchange ideas and build lasting international connections.  

As part of the trip, the students also explored Brighton, visited the Weald & Downland Museum, and visited a local timber-frame construction company, gaining further insight into UK construction methods and the country’s culture and heritage.  

Helen Loftus, Principal of Chichester College, said:  
“It was a pleasure to welcome the students and staff from Lycée du Bois to Chichester College. Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable, not only in helping students develop their technical skills and industry knowledge, but also in giving them the chance to experience a different culture and learning environment.  

“International visits foster collaboration, friendship and the sharing of ideas, and we were delighted to showcase our excellent construction facilities and expertise. We hope the students gained a memorable and rewarding experience from their time with us.”  

To learn about the wide range of Construction courses available at the college, please click here.