The first class of students for the Pre-Apprenticeship Carpentry and Joinery course at West Lothian College attended their induction at the Livingston campus last week.

The course ensures students not only learn necessary trade skills but earn necessary industry qualifications while gaining experience working with businesses that are part of Morrison Construction’s trusted supply chain.

Morrison Construction’s economic performance manager, Jim Johnstone, attended the induction day and said: “We are delighted to be here today and meet with the first class of this new pre-apprenticeship course.

“We wanted to enable students by providing a clear and sustainable career pathway, while also allowing our supply chain access to a high-quality talent pool.

“It has been a pleasure to work with the leadership of West Lothian College who have shown innovation and vision. We are excited about the future possibilities of this partnership.”

Jackie Galbraith, principal of West Lothian College, said: “Today is a landmark day for West Lothian College and a demonstration of what can be achieved when colleges work in partnership with leading industry players like Morrison Construction.

“Students starting on this new course will learn from a fantastic team of lecturers at the college, as well as gaining invaluable input and experience from Morrison’s and their supply chain companies.

“I have no doubt that our partnership with Morrison Construction will go from strength to strength, benefiting the people, community and economy in West Lothian.”

While this is the first collaboration between the West Lothian College and Morrison Construction, the contractor is also working closely with several other colleges including Ayrshire College, New College Lanarkshire, Glasgow Clyde College and Edinburgh College.

The work builds on Morrison Construction’s engagement with hundreds of students every year, including 500 between September 2018 and June 2019, providing education and employment opportunities as part of a progressive social value programme.