Jamie Kelly (20) from Garrowhill is one of 33 apprentices employed in Glasgow and the west. A second-year plumbing apprentice, he is studying at Glasgow Kelvin College in Springburn and is currently based at a 150-home regeneration scheme in Airdrie.

Jamie said: “Since starting my apprenticeship, I have really enjoyed it. I have been based on quite a few sites and I have gained a lot of experience and I think the most valuable skill I have learned to date is communication; every day is different so it is important to be listen, learn and get involved.”

Leigh Kennedy (25) from Alexandria in West Dunbartonshire is in the second year of her joinery apprenticeship programme with West College Scotland. She commented: “I’ve worked on 3 sites so far and have really enjoyed my time with CCG. Each project I have been involved in have been at different stages and I have really focused to develop my skills as part of the team.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship. The skills that I am learning will be invaluable to the rest of my career and that’s what young people can look towards.”

CCG is a leading supporter of youth employment in the Scottish construction industry - one quarter of the company workforce under the age of 28 - and is actively working to replenish and grow skills in the sector. Their buoyant apprenticeship programme, which also includes SVEQ in administration, is complemented by a range of higher education training programmes in areas such as site management, surveying, and timber frame design.

CCG managing director, David Wylie, added: “Our business is live on over 30 construction projects, including over 3,000 homes and seven planned maintenance contracts across the breadth of the country, and their delivery is reliant upon our staff whether they are experienced or are taking their first steps into a career via an apprenticeship or training programme. As a business, CCG are extremely proud that we are able to provide opportunities, year-on-year, to develop and enhance the careers of young people and we all look forward to welcoming our new recruits this August.”