National Inclusion Expert Rebecca Heald Delivers Workplace Culture Masterclasses at Preston College

Last week, Preston College welcomed nationally recognised inclusion specialist Rebecca Heald for a series of impactful masterclasses delivered to Preston College students and apprentices across Construction and STEM.

Rebecca, known for her national work on workplace culture, psychological safety, and inclusive behaviours, led sessions focused on professional standards, communication, inclusive conduct, and the realities of modern site culture. Using real-life scenarios, she guided students through the behaviours that build trust, confidence and belonging, while highlighting harmful patterns that undermine safety and professional reputation.

The masterclasses explored key themes including:

• Understanding the difference between productive, unproductive, unsafe and abusive behaviour
• Inclusion and belonging
• Building effective, respectful workplace communication and the importance of clarity on site
• Tackling inappropriate “banter,” microaggressions and exclusion
• Building confidence, resilience, and professional identity in a modern construction workplace
• Developing personal standards aligned to industry expectations and employer values

Mark Taylor, Director of School for Construction, says:

“At Preston College, inclusion, professionalism, and culture are not add-ons, they sit at the heart of our 5As Ambition Framework and the way we prepare students for employment. Rebecca’s expertise strengthens the student journey and ensures our apprentices enter the workplace with the confidence, behaviours, and communication skills employers expect.”

Rebecca Heald added:

“My work is all about bridging the gap between education and industry by bringing real world leadership and inclusion into the conversation. Yesterday proved that when apprentices are given space to think, speak up, and challenge the old way of doing things, they aren’t just learning a trade – they are shaping the future of our industry. This is where culture starts, and colleges like Preston are the launchpad for that shift.”

Rebecca’s sessions reinforced the message that strong culture drives strong performance, a point echoed throughout her work and the insights shared with students.