PUPILS from Windmill Hill Academy in Launceston have learned a valuable lesson about staying safe, thanks to a special visit organised by Taylor Wimpey.

The leading local house builder is building new homes at nearby Gwel An Hay in Hay Common, Launceston, and has been working with the school to promote the importance of health and safety.

The school children enjoyed an assembly on Wednesday, June 15, featuring talks by the Gwel An Hay site manager, Keith Henderson, and sales executive, Vivien Trivett.

The pupils found out about the many different dangers that are posed by construction sites, from falling scaffolding, bricks and pipes, to broken glass or sharp metal hidden in sand. The children even had the chance to try on high-visibility jackets, rigger boots and hard hats.

Andrew Terry, the head of Windmill Hill Academy, said: “The pupils thoroughly enjoyed the assembly, and the information given was extremely valuable in highlighting the dangers of building sites.

“We thank Taylor Wimpey for coming to Windmill Hill, and helping our pupils understand what those dangers are and of the importance of staying safe.”

Following the success of the assembly Taylor Wimpey has organised an artwork competition for the pupils at the school, encouraging them to design a poster highlighting the need for safety in the workplace.

Finalists will be selected by the leading housebuilder, and their artwork will then be displayed at DC Property, Launceston, for a public vote. The four most popular entries will be crowned the winners, each receiving a goody bag prize plus an invitation to see their work displayed at Taylor Wimpey’s development.

Clare Brimble, regional sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey, said: “We take our health and safety responsibilities seriously, both on-site and off it, which is why we organised this talk at Windmill Hill Academy.

“Youngsters are naturally curious about the things going on around them, and building sites can seem like both intriguing and exciting places, so it’s important for them to understand that in reality they are places which are full of serious dangers.

“The pupils really paid attention to the message of the assembly, and we hope it will help them to stay safe in the future. We’re looking forward to seeing their poster designs during our artwork competition over the summer.”