A NEW national challenge for housing apprentices has been launched.

Housing Minister Margaret Burgess launched the project to mark the start of Apprentice week.

Apprentices will create video diaries of their work for the initiative run by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations.

Margaret Burgess, housing minister said “The SFHA’s Apprentice Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to put apprentices in the spotlight, and I would encourage young people across the country to enter this year’s competition.

“The Apprentice Challenge showcases the valuable contribution apprentices make to the social housing sector and the important role they are playing helping us to deliver affordable housing.

Mary Taylor, chief executive of the SFHA, said: “Apprenticeships can give young people the vital skills and experience which will benefit them throughout their careers, and nurturing young talent now will benefit the sector in the future.”