The trade apprentice roles in bricklaying (four) and carpentry (four), along with a technical apprentice, will work across Barratt’s developments in Glasgow and the surrounding area in the west of Scotland. They will also take part in courses from their local college to obtain qualifications and develop their trade skills.

A total of 26 new starts will form part of Barratt Developments Scotland’s 2021 intake, in a number of positions across the business, from sales and land graduates as part of their ASPIRE Graduate Programme, to bricklayer and carpenter trade apprentices.

2021 is seen as a vital year for recruiting new talent into the construction industry with Barratt Homes recognising the importance of offering career opportunities in the areas that they build in, while addressing the current skills shortage. As well as being available to people who have just left school or college and are looking for a new challenge, apprenticeships are also open to those who have already started working towards a career in housebuilding.

Hollie, 19 from Coatbridge, is a carpentry apprentice now in her second year with Barratt. She said: “The first years of the apprenticeship scheme have been really good. The training, mentoring and hands on experience, have helped my skills development and set me up for the future as I am hoping to get my HND in site management in the next few years.

“With college being online for most of the last year, a lot of my practical experience has come from on-site. My managers and wider team have been supportive throughout, and allowed me to focus on the things I need for college along with work I’m both good at and enjoy.”

When asked what advice she’d give to anyone thinking of an apprenticeship she said: “If you want to do it, you should definitely go for it. I initially wanted to be a vet, but after doing woodwork in a Design and Manufacturing course at school, I instantly knew I learnt a lot more hands-on.”

Craig McFarlane, construction director for Barratt West Scotland, said: “Despite the difficult circumstances over the last year, we’re looking to hire apprentices this year because we are committed to developing raw talent and giving young people opportunities to forge exciting new careers.

“By providing candidates with a first-class apprenticeship and opportunities, they stay with us and continue their careers with Barratt. Many of our former apprentices are among our best employees and they’re continuing to develop their skills and experience.”

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.