The programme, delivered in collaboration with West Dunbartonshire Council, was made to give young people first-hand insight into the various careers within the construction industry while helping them gain the confidence and skills required to enter work. 

Roughly 30 pupils participated in the programme, which brought together industry presentations, interactive workshops and practical learning with interview preparation.

Pupils were introduced to the various careers available within the business from The JR Group, ranging from trade and site management roles to commercial, technical and office-based professions. 

Participants also worked with the firm’s quantity surveying team, learning how construction drawings are measured and how developments are delivered. 

The programme also included mock interviews, enabling pupils to see a professional recruitment process ahead of two participants being picked to have work experience with the firm. 

The successful students spent time with the firm’s quantity surveying team and went to its live Bank Street development in Alexandria, where the firm is providing a new sheltered housing development on behalf of West Dunbartonshire Council. 

A formerly derelict site will be turned into 22 one-bedroom apartments, under the project which is scheduled to be completed next year. 

Euan McKendrick, procurement and communications manager at The JR Group, said: “One of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry is attracting the next generation of talented people, so it’s important that we give young people opportunities to see what a career in construction can really offer.

“Pathway to Construction is about breaking down misconceptions and showing pupils that our industry offers a huge variety of rewarding careers, whether that’s on site, in technical disciplines or within professional support roles.”

McKendrick added: “By combining practical workshops, interview experience and time on a live construction project, we hope participants leave with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them.”

Stephen Knox, Working4U foundation apprenticeship mentor for West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “Not only did the students take part in a question-and-answer session with industry experts, but they also had the opportunity to put the knowledge gained during their qualification class sessions into practice through hands-on practical sessions. 

“The knowledge and experience gained from working with The JR Group assisted students in achieving their Level 6 Civil Engineering Foundation Apprenticeship qualification, helping to develop the industry’s future workforce.”