The firm has recruited nine new apprentices into its expanding homes division in Central Scotland to add to the recent intake of six apprentices in North Scotland.

The moves take the total number of modern apprenticeships currently with the house builder and timber systems manufacturer to 45.

In East Lothian, four new communities are being brought forward, representing a total over almost 450 new homes with a combined gross sales values of almost £140 million which will support more than 1,600 jobs. Meanwhile, a further four developments are imminently planned in central and west Scotland.

The trades apprentices will work on these new developments with a range of Stewart Milne Group’s sub-contractors. Eight of the new apprentices, who range in age from 16 - 18 are training in a variety of trades including electrical, plumbing, joinery and bricklaying, while one is joining the design team as a trainee architect.

Bryan Galloway, construction director for Stewart Milne Homes, said: “Latest statistics reveal that one in 10 jobs in Britain is in construction and we simply don’t have enough skilled people. This growing gap, exacerbated by the ageing workforce, is holding back growth and pushing up costs. Demand for sub-contractors is soaring and the industry needs to work more collaboratively to attract young people and then help them develop the necessary skills to pursue a rewarding career in construction.

“At Stewart Milne we are committed to working with our sub-contractors to provide the best environment for apprentices which meets our needs, those of our sub-contractors and ultimately the industry.”

The latest intake of apprentices will undergo a four-year programme to gain the skills and experience required in the construction sector which includes training on the job as well as at college. Each apprentice is assigned a journeyman - an experienced tradesperson who acts as their mentor and supports them in developing their skills and confidence. All journeymen receive training in mentoring and development to ensure they can support their apprentices in the best way possible and allow them to reach their full potential.

Mr Galloway added: “Apprenticeships arm people with the right skills and experience to get the job done, excel and develop. We’re proud that many who complete their training with us choose to remain and progress their career within Stewart Milne Group. Indeed, we’ve got several examples of apprentices who are now at senior levels in the company, not least of whom is our chairman and founder.”

Stewart Milne Group’s 45 apprentices currently include civil engineers, quantity surveyors and architectural technicians as well as joiners, bricklayers, electricians, plumbers and painters.

Opportunities to join the 2019 intake of apprentices at Stewart Milne Group will open later this year.