Graduate builds skills through Women into Home Building Programme in Lancashire
A development in Burscough has helped to provide valuable on-site experience to an aspiring site manager as part of the Women into Home Building programme.
Samira Rahimi, from Crosby, joined the programme – delivered by the Home Builders Federation (HBF) and supported by Anwyl Homes at Priory Gardens in Burscough – to gain an insight into site management and research her next career move.
With an MSc in Architecture and an MSc in Construction Project Management, alongside previous roles as an architect and CAD technician, Samira wanted to build on her existing skills and background.
“I really wanted to experience the role of a site manager in real life,” she explained. “That was the main reason I applied, so I could understand the job properly and see if it’s the right path for me.”
During her placement, Samira took on the role of trainee site manager, shadowing site manager Neil Bailey. She joined daily site walks, monitored progress and observed a wide range of construction stages, from foundations and brickwork to roofing, plastering and inspections.
Her placement also introduced her to several key figures across the business. “Everyone was very open and supportive,” Samira said. “They explained their roles clearly and helped me understand different career paths so I could decide what suits me best.”
Samira hopes more women will explore careers in home building. She added: “If you’re interested in any area of construction, I honestly recommend joining this programme,” she said. “You get real exposure, meet people across the business, and see the industry from the inside. It helps you understand your strengths and what direction you’d like to take.
“Everyone made me feel welcomed and valued. Their support really helped me feel part of the team and the wider construction community.”
Lauren Humphreys, head of HR at Anwyl Homes, said: “The Women into Home Building programme is a brilliant scheme and we’re proud to have supported Samira on her placement at Priory Gardens. Encouraging more women into site management and construction careers is vital for strengthening the industry’s future workforce and we’re pleased to play our part in opening up these opportunities.”
Launched in 2023, the Women into Home Building programme offers online training followed by a two-week placement, giving women practical exposure to the roles involved in building new homes. Many participants have since progressed into roles across the home building sector.
For more on building a career with Anwyl, visit careers.anwyl.co.uk, or to discover where Anwyl is building, visit www.anwylhomes.co.uk.
To learn more about the Women into Home Building programme, visit www.hbf.co.uk/wihb.