The 16 new trade apprentice roles, focused on bricklaying, joinery and plumbing, will work across Barratt’s developments in in the East, West, and North of Scotland.

The announcement comes ahead of the twelfth annual National Apprenticeship Week, running from March 4th-8th, which celebrates the benefits of apprenticeships for individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Skills shortages have repeatedly been cited as a major risk to the growth and success of the construction sector, both in Scotland, and the rest of the UK. The latest monthly construction market survey (Q4 2018) from RICS shows that half of respondents reporting a shortage of labour to be an issue, with nearly half reported a shortage of bricklayers as a major issue.

Douglas McLeod, regional managing director for Barratt Homes Scotland, said: “The construction industry is continuing to grow and this is an exciting time for anyone with an interest in housebuilding to join a market leading company.

“As one of the country’s top developers we are absolutely committed to developing raw talent and I believe that we have a duty to provide these kinds of apprenticeship opportunities.”

The new apprentices, who start in the summer, will be based on a housing designated development site and will learn skills in bricklaying, carpentry, joinery or plumbing from experienced tradespeople.

They will also attend their local college to obtain qualifications and develop their trade skills.

All programmes are well structured and tailored to individual needs. Apprentices will receive encouragement, support and guidance to help them develop, giving the skills and qualifications for a successful career.