Viewing apprenticeships as a way of attracting young people into the sector and offering them the opportunity to build attractive careers in construction, the independent home builder and timber systems manufacturer now boasts 44 apprentices across the business at various stages in their career.

The new apprentices, who will work in a variety of trades such as joinery, bricklaying, plumbing and painting, will undergo a four-year programme to gain the skills and experience needed to develop an exciting career in a sector which continues to face skills shortages.

As a result of this looming skills gap, construction apprenticeships are some of the most popular and competitive and the modern apprenticeships at Stewart Milne Group offer individuals a chance to join an award-winning team, with scope to build a long-lasting career.

Having been involved in apprenticeship schemes for almost 40 years, Stewart Milne Group now has many former apprentices in senior roles across, including heads of departments and even directors. 

Stewart Dalgarno, director of product development, began his apprenticeship at Stewart Milne Homes 35 years ago. He said: “The apprenticeship scheme at Stewart Milne Group is an excellent pathway for those aiming to pursue a career in the construction sector. Year on year the company equip apprentices with the experience and knowledge to thrive within one of the UK’s largest housebuilders.

“Through hard work, and with support from the company, I was appointed a director before I was 30 and then relocated to England to take up the post of managing director of Stewart Milne Timber Systems.

“At Stewart Milne, we believe there is no wrong path and are very proud of our culture that has no limits on personal development. As our employees progress, there are opportunities and tools available to help them build a successful and rewarding career. This includes our internal and award-winning leadership programmes as well as fast track initiatives and MA degrees and certifications.”   

Looking to kick-start their careers at Stewart Milne’s Homes North division are apprentices Jamie Elliot, Jamie Cargill, Connor Leisk, Ryan Cruickshank, Nathan Stephen and Ryan Maclsaac.

A further six apprentices are due to start in Central Scotland later this month.

They will work on a variety of new developments across North and Central Scotland, with a range of trusted and expert Stewart Milne Group sub-contractors. 

New apprentice bricklayer Jamie Elliot said: “I am very excited to get started and take my first steps in the construction sector with Stewart Milne Group. The apprenticeship scheme is a great opportunity to develop a range of technical and practical skills, as well as offering job security for the future. 

“The apprenticeship scheme does not only equip you with vital skills for pursuing a career in construction, but also offers the chance to progress through the company.

“Having heard of many others who have progressed from apprentices to senior roles, I’m looking to achieve every success at Stewart Milne Group through a combination of hard work and determination.”

Apprenticeships with Stewart Milne Group involve training on-site and at college during the first three years, giving an apprentice a balance of technical and practical skills. Trade apprentices then complete their fourth year on-site.

The 44 apprentices, at various stages in their apprenticeships, including civil engineers, quantity surveyors and architectural technicians, represent around 5% of Stewart Milne Group’s total workforce and the new recruits will join and learn from this supportive community.