Infrastructure firm Robertson Group is helping secondary pupils lay the foundations for life beyond education after launching a mentor scheme at Baldragon Academy in Dundee.

Six senior students are set to benefit from the expertise of the firm’s employees in a programme praised by representatives from Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Dundee & Angus, who presented Robertson Tayside with a certificate of partnership at the firm’s regional headquarters.

The Robertson mentors are hoping lessons can be learned from their mentees on how best to tackle the construction industry skills gap and attract young talent into the business.

Mark Blyth, commercial director of Robertson Tayside and Young People Champion for the region, said: “We’re proud to launch the mentor programme at Baldragon Academy, which will help young people to build confidence, discover their strengths, skills and talents, broaden their aspirations and ambitions in life and develop employability skills.

“The mentor relationships will be established over a number of visits to both Baldragon Academy and our offices, with one of the pupils already taking part in a placement with us.

“It’s important for us to use our position within the industry to help bridge the gap between earning and learning, helping young people establish lifelong employability skills while opening their eyes to the diverse careers available within the built environment.”

Ross Paterson, employer liaison adviser for DYW Dundee & Angus, said: “The partnership between Robertson and Baldragon Academy is Developing the Young Workforce in action and is a fantastic example of how a business can link with a local school.

“The mentoring programme is hugely beneficial for both parties. It provides an excellent CPD opportunity for Robertson staff and is invaluable for pupils, helping them develop confidence, gain new skills, and learn from experienced professionals about how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

“This support from Robertson will help to prepare our young people for their future careers, which achieves the core aim of the DYW agenda.”

The mentoring scheme is part of an ongoing partnership between Robertson and Baldragon Academy established during the construction of the new secondary school – which opened its doors in February – for which Robertson Tayside was primary contractor.

The partnership includes work experience, skills and development sessions, placement schemes, careers advice and apprentice opportunities.