Scotland's largest housing provider has doubled its number of modern apprentices in the last year.

The Wheatley Group, which provides housing, care and property maintenance services, has taken on 41 young people from some of the country's most deprived areas.

The firm, which has nine partners including Glasgow, Cube and Loretto housing associations, will help the apprentices to learn on the job.

At the same time they will study for an SVQ in subjects ranging from horticulture and care to housing and business administration.

The two-year apprenticeships have been supported by the firm's charitable arm.

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Kaylee Duncan from Blairdardie is one of the youngsters on this year's scheme.

The 19-year-old mum-of-two is working with Cube Housing Association, one of Wheatley’s partner organisations, to develop her skills in the housing sector.

She said: "I’ve wanted to work in housing for a few years. I like the thought of helping people every day and doing what you can to help make people’s lives better.

“Wheatley wants to help improve people’s lives and I’m excited about being part of that. I can’t wait to meet tenants.”

The company has taken on more than 230 modern apprentices since the scheme was launched in 2009, with more than two-thirds of young people going on to work or education after completing it.

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Sir Harry Burns, Chairman of Wheatley Foundation, said: "Our award-winning Modern Apprenticeships are assisting young people across Scotland forge a brighter future for themselves.

"Having met many of this year’s intake, I know how inspired and valued these young people feel and how determined and motivated they are to make the most of the opportunities they have earned."