18 July 2025
Summary: Young people from across Lambeth have taken part in a week-long Brainery Bootcamp aimed at opening doors into the world of property and regeneration
A group of 26 young people from across London, with the majority being from Lambeth, took part in a week-long ‘Brainary Bootcamp’ event this week, designed to inspire them to pursue careers in property and regeneration.
The participants, aged 14-21, took part in the five-day programme across London, with one of the sessions being held at MTVH’s flagship regeneration scheme, Clapham Park. The purpose of the scheme was to help participants explore career options, build confidence, and gain practical insights into the built environment sector.
Charity Regeneration Brainery are the delivery partner for the Brainery Bootcamp, and this summer’s Bootcamp was sponsored by the joint venture between social landlord MTVH and developer Vistry.
Highlights included a walkabout of the estate’s development sites and a speed networking session giving the young people access to top tips, career advice and encouragement, and a hands-on design and build activity.
In a design project, participants were challenged to think sustainably by coming up with designs for how to use reclaimed timber. They were asked, “What would you do with these materials?” which sparked creative thinking around turning waste into something that would benefit the community. Students used cardboard and LEGO blocks to build models, and they presented their innovative ideas.
Lunch was provided by local family-run business Dania’s Café, championing the importance of supporting local community businesses.
Rosalyn Springer, Social Value Partnerships Manager at Clapham Park, who organised and hosted the day, said:
“It was fantastic to welcome bright and ambitious young people to Clapham Park and show them the exciting careers available in regeneration. Their creativity, curiosity and energy were inspiring to see.
“Programmes like this are vital to help young people overcome barriers to entry in our sector and encourage them into rewarding and interesting careers. It’s inspiring to see such enthusiasm from the next generation.”
The bootcamp comes at a time when the construction industry faces a green skills gap and underrepresentation in terms of gender and ethnicity. A recent survey by the Chartered Institute of Building found that while 68% of young people aged 16-24 view construction careers positively, 28% feel such careers are not accessible. Initiatives like the Brainery Bootcamp are helping to change that narrative.
The event was supported by 20 staff volunteers from across the joint venture and supply chain partners including Errigal Sustainable Solutions, Ian Williams, Amber Construction, Hemiko, Ener-vate, Living Proof, and Sureserve Compliance Fire.
This marked the fourth time that MTVH has run this annual bootcamp, which has taken place every year since 2022.
Below – participants in the programme pose for a photo
Below – students in discussion
