GLASGOW will be in a better position than most to bounce back when Britain eventually staggers out of the recession - thanks to a new skills academy.
GLASGOW will be in a better position than most to bounce back when Britain eventually staggers out of the recession - thanks to a new skills academy.
| Case study JENNIFER Breaden knew from fourth year in school that she wanted to work in the construction industry. She left Lourdes Secondary the following year with eight Standard Grades, seven at credit level, and five Highers, three of them at A grade. But instead of going to university she decided to follow in her father's footsteps and become a plumber. Jennifer, who is 18 and lives in Cardonald, applied to the council's construction company City Building, and she was awarded an apprenticeship and is now working towards an SVQ at level three. She said: "I have really enjoyed my training so far. I became part of the team almost instantly and have learned so many skills both at college and on site." Jennifer would like to set up her own business when she completes her apprenticeship but is also considering training to be a joiner or electrician. |
The downturn in construction work means that many experienced tradesmen will head overseas to find work, leaving holes in the skills needed throughout the industry to cope with the upturn.
But Glasgow's new Construction Skills Academy is already working to plug those gaps.
The new centre in the Gorbals will eventually train around 400 people a year in virtually every construction industry trade.
It seeks to target those not in employment, education or training and some of the hardest to reach groups, including the long-term unemployed and incapacity benefit claimants.
Skills Academy manager Iain Callan said that what makes the training centre unique is its ability to change the courses it offers to meet the changing needs of the industry.
He said: "The credit crunch has forced us to review the courses we provide.
"There is £4.5billion of construction work under way or planned in Glasgow and we are trying to encourage employers to take on trainees and apprentices.
"Companies which want to get contracts from the Common-wealth Games need to start now if they are to train apprentices for the jobs of the future.
"When the upturn comes we will still need trained, skilled operatives."
As well as teenagers, the college also trains semi-skilled construction workers who want to learn a new trade and get the certificate that goes with it, making it easier to find work.
Funding for the training provided at the academy comes from Glasgow City Council, Scottish Enterprise, Glasgow Community Planning Partnerships, Glasgow Works and council arm's length company City Building.
