The partnership with Glasgow Caledonian University was first launched four years ago to enable City Building employees to gain qualifications whilst working at the firm.

Marc Murray, senior contracts manager; Sharon O’Neill, assistant business planner; Terry Brown, contracts manager; Natalie MacPherson, contracts manager; Jason Pearson, head of GCC services; Louise Allan, business change lead and Paul Currie, assistant divisional manager, all graduated with BA (Hons) in Business Management last week.

The programme was designed to meet the requirements of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and will allow City Building to further develop managers and emerging talent.

The City Building cohort, who all began the course as managers, are employed in a range of divisions across the business, from construction to repairs and maintenance.

Most started straight from school as trades apprentices, becoming plumbers, painters and decorators, joiners and roofers, before being promoted.

Sharon Wearing, executive director at City Building, said: “City Building has a long history of supporting staff to achieve their potential through learning opportunities. Seeing this new cohort of our partnership with Glasgow Caledonian University graduate this year is a very inspiring moment for everyone connected to our organisation.

“Investing in education is investing in our future leaders, who will help drive innovation and success in our industry. As the largest provider of craft apprenticeships in Scotland we know the role workplace training can have on inspiring, motivating and ultimately improving someone’s career prospects.”

Jason Pearson, who joined City Building as an apprentice joiner and is now Head of Glasgow City Council Services, said: “I am immensely proud to be part of this group of City Building staff to undergo this programme and gain a degree.

“There is a perception that doing an apprenticeship in some way limits your ability to gain academic qualifications, but City Building has been exemplary in supporting me and my colleagues to grow our skillsets and gain this degree.”