The ‘Fleming Skills Hub’ offers a workshop-style space within the school grounds, where students swap school uniforms for hard hats and hi-vis vests and develop practical skills using professional tools and industry standard equipment.

Launched in partnership as part of the community benefit programme connected to the new Bishopton and Dargavel Health Facility, the initiative is being delivered jointly by Fleming and hub West Scotland, with support from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) alongside Fleming’s supply chain.

The first project will see students construct timber ‘mud kitchens’ for 10 local feeder primary schools using materials, hand tools and ancillary items donated by Fleming. With new high-quality tools, safety equipment and materials, pupils are now set to begin building in the coming days.

Paul Binns, teacher of technical education at Park Mains High School, said: “This programme will make a huge difference to the confidence and engagement of some of our pupils. The Fleming Skills Hub offers a different way to learn out with the traditional classroom - practical, hands-on and genuinely inspiring. We’re excited to see how it develops and the long-term impact it could have on our young people.” 

Through the development of the Bishopton Dargavel Health Facility, Fleming has engaged closely with Park Mains High School to deliver social value including work placements, site visits and supporting their careers event.

The Fleming Skills Hub is designed to leave a legacy, investing in high quality tools and a format that will evolve year after year. Next stage plans include plumbing and electrical-themed tasks that broaden students’ exposure to different trades and help build confidence for those exploring future careers in construction.

Mike Burrows, director at Fleming, added: “We wanted to create something that genuinely helps students who might not thrive in a traditional classroom. The Skills Hub gives them an alternative way to learn, one that’s active, practical, and packed with potential. It’s been brilliant to see how the school has embraced the idea, and we’re proud to be delivering this in partnership with hub West Scotland.”

The Fleming Skills Hub is the latest in a series of community-focused initiatives delivered by Fleming and hub West Scotland, who share a strong commitment to creating social value through construction. Their work together on the new healthcare facility in Bishopton and Dargavel - due for completion later this year - continues to generate opportunities for local employment, education and community engagement.

Iain Marley, CEO, hub West Scotland, said: “Community Investment is an extremely important aspect of all our projects. We insist that investment brings tangible benefits for local people and businesses, and we are thrilled that the new health centre has exceeded our and NHSGGC’s initial aspirations. Local students at Park Mains High School will benefit from the skills hub for years to come and is exactly the kind of lasting legacy that makes a difference.”