Glasgow schools programme launched to bolster green skills

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Glasgow, Inspiring Scotland and Fare Scotland, has launched a new programme aimed at developing the next generation of construction talent. 

Construction Aware has been designed to engage and educate young people about the diverse career opportunities available in the industry.

The programme will provide work experience placements for around 200 pupils from 13 secondary schools across Glasgow. 

Pupils who complete the programme will gain a SCQF level 3 qualification. 

Running alongside the school year, the programme covers topics such as retrofitting, Passivhaus, and modern methods of construction. 

Alison McRae, senior director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a really exciting programme which has been co-created by our business community and education to respond to a market need where there are critical skills shortages. 

“It will clearly show the next generation of our workforce some of the current and emerging roles within the sector in a practical and, we hope, energising way.” 

McRae added that the programme is about opening doors to some of the city region’s young people who might otherwise not have access to these opportunities.

“It’s a great example of impact-driven collaboration in action,” she said.  

The programme has been co-designed by educational institutions and industry stakeholders, including McTaggart Construction, Robertson Group, CCG Scotland, A.C. Whyte, RJ McLeod, and Sibbald Training. 

It is supported by CITB, as well as being backed by BE-ST and City of Glasgow College.