The six, aged between 16 and 20, joined CR Smith in July 2024 and are being supported in the final stages of their apprenticeships through a unique partnership with Fife College, established over a decade ago.

Their grades in the most recent tests show their developing skills and commitment to their chosen careers.

Each recruit secured their City & Guilds SCQF Level 5 in Carpentry and Joinery at Fife College before being selected for the CR Smith programme and are now being supported in the final stages of their City and Guilds Level 3 Site Carpentry Diploma. 

Over the course of a year, all six will work closely with experienced CR Smith installation teams, benefiting from one-on-one mentorship and real-work experience as joiners’ mates while continuing their classroom studies two nights a week.

Designed in collaboration with Fife College, the programme ensures that the apprentices receive not only the technical skills necessary for joinery but also a deep understanding of quality craftsmanship and customer service vital to the company’s success.

The innovative structure of their training equips them with the skills they need as they also develop as individuals for the opportunities that lie ahead as fully qualified joiners.

CR Smith managing director, Ian Macfarlane, explained that the success of the company’s training programmes can be measured in the number of former apprentices who still work at CR Smith. 

“Our work with aspiring joiners is a cornerstone of our commitment to nurturing future talent,” he says. “By investing in young people, we are not only ensuring the continued success of CR Smith but also helping to consolidate the broader importance of trade apprenticeships by keeping traditional skills alive.

“The programme and the partnership with Fife College has evolved over the years as we continually innovate to meet the needs of the business and those of the young people in our community. We spend time teaching our apprentices how to become top quality joiners as well as supporting their ongoing personal development. I’ve seen lots of young people become real ambassadors for the company and today, 20 of our installation teams include a joiner who did their apprenticeship with us. It’s something we are all very proud of.”

Kyle Sung, 20, is one of the latest to join the programme. He commented: “Joinery offers a lot of opportunities. It’s unlikely that you’ll ever run out of work. But it’s also a craft, which is why I have chosen this career. Learning from CR Smith, which has been in business longer than I’ve been alive, inspires real confidence. You simply don’t get that elsewhere.”

Frazer Walker, head of School for Engineering, Construction & Technical Skills at Fife College, added: “Our long-standing partnership with CR Smith provides students with invaluable real-world experience while they complete their studies, ensuring they develop both the technical skills and professionalism needed in the industry. We are incredibly proud of these students and look forward to seeing them succeed in their careers.”