Contractors' scheme aiding employment

A partnership between two local contractors is helping to encourage a new generation of apprentices get on to the career ladder.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Aug 2018, 12:31 BST
Updated 30th Aug 2018, 12:34 BST
Morgan Stanway, who has started work on the Cumbernauld Academy and theatre project through a partnership programme involving local contractors.Morgan Stanway, who has started work on the Cumbernauld Academy and theatre project through a partnership programme involving local contractors.
Morgan Stanway, who has started work on the Cumbernauld Academy and theatre project through a partnership programme involving local contractors.

Morgan Stanway is one such local apprentice who is enjoying his first month in work, secured during a recent work placement on Morrison Construction’s £37million Cumbernauld Academy and Cumbernauld Theatre project.

Brickworks contractor Lesterose employed Morgan, 17, after being impressed by his attitude and work ethic during a six-week work experience programme. He now has a full-time job and is in line for a Modern Apprenticeship.

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This career opportunity was made possible through Morrison Construction’s Contractor Partnership, established three years ago as part of the company’s community benefits programme. With trusted supply chain businesses,such as Lesterose and New College Lanarkshire, the partnership assists young people to gain qualifications, experience and build relationships within the local construction sector.

Jim Johnstone, Morrison Construction economic performance manager, said: “We’re delighted that Morgan has secured a long-term opportunity in the bricklaying trade with our supply chain contractor Lesterose and we wish him every success.

“This partnership has been a successful way for us to guide and prepare young people with aspirations for a career in the construction industry.’’

Barry Holmes, Lesterose Quality’s health, safety and environment systems manager, said: “Our business has a strong focus on providing career opportunities for young people. We usually have 10 to 12 Modern Apprentices as part of our team at any one time. Five of our Modern Apprentices have been working at the Cumbernauld site, two of which have completed their training in April.”

Once complete the new campus will have capacity for 1250 secondary pupils and a 300-seat replacement venue for Cumbernauld Theatre.