Construction, refurbishment and maintenance company Clark Contracts has achieved Gold accreditation as an investor in young people.

As the only people management standard that focuses on an employer’s recruitment and retention of young people, the prestigious award represents a commitment to the training and development of young people and testifies to the company’s effective youth employment practices.

At present, 26 people are being trained through Clark Contracts Academy which first launched in 2006, gaining qualifications in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Building Surveying, Joinery, Administration and IT. Already a 5% Club member, Clark Contracts has now been formally recognised by Investors in Young People for its commitment to ensuring young people are supported and developed throughout the organisation attracting new talent into the industry.

Commenting on the award, David Cooper, academy director at Clark Contracts, said: “It’s a terrific achievement for us to be awarded the Investors in Young People Gold award. As members of the 5% Club, we have already committed to supporting our employees to achieve formal qualifications whilst gaining experience working full time. This accreditation reinforces our culture and commitment to developing young people within our industry.”

Peter Russian, chief executive of Investors in People Scotland, added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Clark Contracts and I and the whole IIYP team would like to wholeheartedly congratulate them. The Investors in Young People framework not only recognises and supports organisations in the employment of young people, but marks them out as an employer of choice.

“The benefits of recruiting and developing young people are countless. These include the creation of a talent pool for the future, new and increased skills in areas such as IT and social media, fresh eyes and mind-sets into business operations, along with enthusiasm and unique talents.”