The ACT-UK Simulation Centre - the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) backed construction management simulation centre currently under construction in Coventry - will this month (April) host the launch of a new trust set up to promote lifelong learning in the construction industry.

The formation of the new Coventry & Warwickshire Construction Education & Training (CAWCET) Foundation will be officially announced at the ACT-UK Simulation Centre building on 29 April. The charity will promote learning opportunities in construction and attract funds for construction training and its development.


It will oversee a partnership between local further education colleges, Coventry University, the ACT-UK Simulation Centre, the Construction Industry Partnership Centre and a number of professional construction organisations.

The event will also provide an opportunity for the first glimpse inside the new ACT-UK Simulation Centre which is due to open in September 2009. ACT-UK is currently recruiting supervisors and professional actors who will work with trainees at the new centre which will be the first of its kind in the UK with virtual reality simulation used to effectively recreate conditions on site.

The centre will present trainees with challenging site management scenarios with site personnel, colleagues and members of the public played by actors. Supervisors observe their behaviour via cameras and then work with the trainees to pinpoint areas for development.

(CD/JM)