Knowledge Quad training facilities on offer at Woolwich leisure centre construction site

Friday 2 February 2024

New training facilities have been opened up in the heart of Woolwich, as part of our work to build a leisure centre overlooking General Gordon Square.

The "Knowledge Quad" is a special training classroom at the Woolwich leisure centre construction site, run by the Council’s contractor, Morgan Sindall Construction. It hosts a range of courses including construction skills and health and safety training. It can also be used for free by community groups and schools to deliver other types of training sessions for Royal Greenwich residents. 

Providing the new training room is part of Morgan Sindall’s commitment to giving back to the local community whilst it works on the project. 

Cllr Aidan Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “The Knowledge Quad is a great space, offering the chance for people to develop their careers in construction and see a real building site firsthand. It’s great to hear that Morgan Sindall are connecting with organisations, schools, colleges, university students and more around Royal Greenwich. This is so important, to ensure the wider community benefits throughout construction and beyond.” 

“It’s very exciting to see the team making such significant progress on the construction. The leisure centre is just one of the exciting schemes coming forward in Woolwich which will create a thriving town centre and help our residents look after their health and wellbeing.” 

Richard Dobson, Area Director at Morgan Sindall, said: “We are delighted to have our first Knowledge Quad in London, on the Woolwich leisure centre development. This space will allow us to deliver a variety of construction courses to Greenwich residents, including CSCS training, supporting those interested in joining the industry.” 

As well as setting up the Knowledge Quad, Morgan Sindall is hosting visits by schools, talking to students of all ages about design and construction, and arranging job opportunities, work experience and career mentoring for local people. 

A group of 16 construction students toured the site recently to meet different members of the team and learn how everything works, as part of their ‘bootcamp’ training course. 

Morgan Sindall also delivered a talk to year 4 pupils from Plumcroft Primary School about the project and how it will benefit the town. Vibrant artwork illustrating what regeneration means to the children will be installed on the hoardings soon. 

The Knowledge Quad has capacity for a trainer and up to 14 learners, with a TV screen and wi-fi provided. Toilet facilities and a canteen are also available onsite. Interested groups can email Morgan Sindall at ms.woolwichlc@morgansindall.com for availability and more information.