Robertson launched its Ideal Candidate Programme in 2017, bringing together education and industry to provide hands-on experience and develop skills that participants will carry forward into any career they choose. Its focus is to enhance the lives of individuals, equipping them with the right knowledge and skills to develop a strong pipeline of talent ready to enter employment and drive industries forward.

The eight-week development programme is primarily designed for those approaching school-leaving age, although has also been successfully tailored for college students and employability groups. Participants take part in four key sessions covering employer expectations, CV writing, social media awareness and interview preparation.

In Scotland, individuals can gain SCQF Level 3 & 4 Certificate in Employability Skills through the programme which is delivered in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce, a Scottish Government initiative to integrate education and employers as part of the Young Person’s Guarantee. Elsewhere in the UK, Robertson work with local partners and colleges to benchmark or accredit learning.

Recent feedback from Glenrothes High School students includes “it helped me get a better understanding of the application process and improve my CV”, and “it was really fun and delivered really well, I learnt multiple skills.”

Lorraine Thomson, teacher and DYW Coordinator at Beath High School in central Scotland, said: “The programme is great as it allows a group of targeted young people, schools and industry partners to link up and create meaningful, real-life experiences whilst developing the young people’s employability skills. This is made more meaningful as it comes from industry experts and educators.”

Robert Fairbairn, head of centre at Oastlers School in Bradford, said: “Robertson has provided invaluable hands-on learning experiences for our learners and the Ideal Candidate programme supports our students through structured, attachment-focused activities.

“Robertson has been responsive and innovative in their engagement with our learners, and we look forward to continuing to work with them.”

Elliot Robertson, chief executive officer, Robertson Group, said: “Ensuring that young people are ready for the world of work is just one of the many initiatives that we run in the communities where we operate.

“Having established this programme, seeing 1,000 candidates complete the course brings us an immense sense of pride. As an industry, we need to address the skills shortage and gaps that are impacting our sector, although the course is suitable for any career path, if we are able to attract more young people to consider a career in construction then we are assuring a sustainable future and work ready generation to keep the construction industry thriving.”

Graeme Hannah, director of sustainability and social impact, Robertson Group, said: “We launched the Ideal Candidate Programme to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing individuals with a stepping stone into the world of work. Our regional businesses carry out the programme across the UK, working successfully with local schools and organisations close to our projects. This way, we can provide real opportunities which deliver many socio-economic benefits for the local communities where we work.

“Reaching 1,000 participants is a fantastic milestone and one that we look forward to building on with support from our partners and dedicated teams.”

Upon completing the programme, many participants have been given the opportunity to enhance their experience through work placements or employment opportunities with Robertson or businesses that support the programme.