At the Centre of Practical Skills (CoPS), we believe in providing hands-on learning experiences to our students. Recently, our masonry students had an exciting opportunity to enhance their skills by venturing out to a real construction site to learn the art of setting out. This practical exercise allowed them to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, gaining valuable insights and honing their expertise. In this post, we will share the highlights of this on-site learning experience and the significance of setting out masonry construction.

Building Strong Foundations: Learning Setting Out On-Site

Setting Out: The Foundation of Precision:

Setting out plays a vital role in masonry construction as it ensures accurate alignment, dimensions, and levelness of structures. Establishing precise reference points and guidelines, setting out forms the foundation for a successful construction process. Our masonry students got first-hand experience in this crucial aspect of their craft during their on-site learning session.

A Real-World Learning Experience:

Our students had the privilege of stepping onto a live construction site, immersing themselves in the practical aspects of setting out. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, they were introduced to the tools, equipment, and techniques used in setting out. From string lines and plumb bobs to measuring tapes and spirit levels, they learned how to utilize these tools effectively to achieve accuracy in their work.

Interpreting Architectural Plans:

Understanding architectural plans and drawings is a crucial skill for masons. During their on-site experience, our students were taught how to interpret plans, identify key dimensions, and reference points. They learned to translate the information from paper to the physical environment, grasping the importance of precision in implementing the design accurately.

Establishing Reliable Reference Points:

The students were taught how to establish reliable reference points on the construction site. These reference points serve as the basis for aligning walls, corners, and other structural elements. Our students honed their ability to identify and mark these reference points through practical exercises, ensuring a solid and accurate foundation for the construction process.

Benefits of this On-Site Learning for our masonry students:

The on-site learning experience provided our masonry students with several valuable advantages, including:

1. Practical Application: Applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting enhances understanding and skill development.

2. Problem-Solving Skills: On-site challenges offer opportunities for students to develop problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and critical thinking.

3. Industry Exposure: Immersion in an actual construction environment exposes students to industry practices, standards, and the collaborative nature of construction projects.

At CoPS, we believe in empowering our students with practical skills that prepare them for real-world scenarios. The recent on-site learning experience for our masonry students, focusing on setting out, provided them with a solid foundation in this crucial aspect of their craft. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, our students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the masonry industry. We remain committed to providing immersive and comprehensive training experiences that prepare our students for successful careers in the trades.

Centre of Practical Skills (CoPS) is implemented by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) via the project “Skills Development for Youth Employment” which is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, GIZ Nigeria & ECOWAS and co-funded by the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC).

Photo credits: Maxwell Odimkpa