Helping to build their future in construction

Pupils at St Modan’s High have been showcasing key skills for careers in the construction industry to Deputy First Minister John Swinney.

The Minister, also responsible for education and skills, attended an event at the school on Wednesday, held as part of its Build Your Future Week’

Figures from the Construction Industry Training Body (CITB) show the Scottish building trade will need 21,000 new entrants at all levels from apprentices to graduates over the next 10 years just to meet current demand.

Pupils were shown at the event how the industry supports roles such as lawyers, accountants, ecologists and software designers.

Mr Swinney said:“The construction industry is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships and this event highlights the many opportunities available.

“I have met so many enthusiastic young people here at St Modan’s who are interested in the range of skills and specialisms available in construction and how they can prepare to enter the industry.”

Headteacher Ray O’Neill said:“It is important our young people are fully aware of the range of career pathways open to them from higher and further education to modern apprenticeships and graduate apprenticeships.”

Build Your Future week was aimed to inspire young people to expand their horizons as they consider their future careers.

It is taking place this week and was organised by the school, business partners, Stirling Council, Skills Development Scotland and DYW Forth Valley.

Young people from every year group were able to explore the world of work by examining career pathways linked to every curricular area.

Among the other highlights was a focus on the importance of literacy and numeracy in the working environment, with insight from authors and social media experts, along with a glimpse into the hospitality industry.

The council’s children and young people convener Councillor Susan McGill said:“We have big plans to increase opportunities for work in areas such as the digital industry, construction and hospitality.”

Tory education spokesperson Councillor Bryan Flannagan, added:“I would like to see a range of these events coordinated across all our high schools every year so all pupils, from every area, can get access to them.”