A SOUTHAMPTON teenager will follow her father’s footsteps into the construction industry after securing a place on a graduate recruitment programme.

Grace Palmer, 18, completed work experience at Barratt Homes while studying A-levels and originally planned to go to university.

But Grace, whose father works as a site manager at the firm, decided that she wanted to learn more practical skills.

During a half-term session in Barratt’s technical department she learned about the five-star homebuilder graduate recruitment programme and wanted to know more.

She said: “At first I wanted to go to university but when I looked at the courses I wasn’t struck by any in particular which would be useful in life.

“I had been working every half-term for about 18 months. It was really interesting and it gave me a great understanding on all the behind-the-scenes activity which is needed to get a site launched, from talking to architects through to getting roads adopted.

“I was delighted to be offered the place.

“I will have a degree and a guaranteed career with prospects at the end of it.”

Grace is currently attending Sheffield Hallam University for one week each month while continuing her learning at the company’s Southampton offices.

Barratt Homes managing director Ian Wallace said: “Grace demonstrated her commitment and drive during her work experience with us and we were delighted that she chose to pursue this opportunity.”