By Karen Peattie
ONE of Scotland’s largest independent construction firms, Cruden Group, has taken on 10 new modern apprentices as part of its strategy to “provide a continuous pipeline of skills and talent” for its housing projects, despite the coronavirus pandemic.
The young people will become part of the 75-strong team of apprentices that Edinburgh-based Cruden is currently training, representing over 20 per cent of its trades workforce. They will embark on a four-year modern apprenticeship programme as joiners, painters, plumbers and bricklayers, learning their chosen trade through practical on-the-job training while working towards a formal qualification.
Cruden has been delivering a modern and graduate apprentice programme for nearly 50 years. “Training and investment in employees are a key priority for the Cruden Group and apprentices are the lifeblood of our business, providing a continuous pipeline of skills and talent,” said Kevin Reid, chief executive
He said that the group’s commitment to developing Scotland’s young workforce remained unaffected by the current Covid-19 pandemic, stating: “We are in the fortunate position of having a robust pipeline of housing projects based upon servicing the housing needs of Scotland, and are consequently well placed to continue to train and nurture young people through a fulfilling career path in construction.
“The group has been committed to modern apprenticeships for nearly 50 years, including during recessions and other difficult economic times including the most recent financial crisis.”
Cruden will invest approximately £200,000 on this latest intake of apprentices over the course of their training. The cost is significantly higher but is offset by receipt of governmental grants, the company said.
Mr Reid continued: “Through our Cruden Academy, we are committed to recruiting, retaining and investing in our employees, and our modern apprenticeship programme plays a vital role. Young people with apprenticeships are among the most employable in the country, not to mention becoming equipped with valuable practical skills and a good salary.
“Given the current economic climate, it’s all the more satisfying to start these young people off on their journey towards a rewarding career in a thriving sector.”
Over 250 young people applied for the roles, including apprentice painter Amy Kyle, 16. She said: “Painting is something I’ve always wanted to do, so I’m delighted to be successful on Cruden’s modern apprenticeship scheme. I’m really looking forward to learning new skills, both on-site and in college, and to build my career in construction.”
Cruden also runs a range of additional training initiatives through its Pathways to Employment programme. It holds Investors in People silver and Investors in Young People gold accreditations.
Apprentice joiner, Jack Gallacher, 21, added: “Through Action for Children, I carried out a work placement opportunity with Cruden which led to a labourer’s role. My site manager was so impressed with me that I got the opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship.
"I’m over the moon that I’ve been selected for this year’s intake. Getting the chance to work on-site and learn this trade is life-changing and a real dream come true for me.”
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