Persimmon makes donations to Scottish colleges

In Aberdeen, Persimmon Homes North Scotland donated over 4,000 bricks to North East Scotland College’s Altens campus, supplied from the company’s own brick factory in Doncaster.

The handover was attended by North East Scotland MSP Duncan Massey, and the bricks will let students practice bricklaying techniques in a live training environment. The donation ties into Persimmon’s broader push to re-establish itself in the North East, where it has developments underway in Blackdog and Newmachar.

Liam Wright, curriculum manager for construction at North East Scotland College, said: “Support from employers like Persimmon is vital to the future of construction in the North East. Alongside apprenticeships, many of our full-time students use college as a pathway into the industry, gaining experience across different trades before choosing a career.

“Donations like this enable learners to work with industry-standard materials in a real workshop environment—something that wouldn’t be possible without support from local employers. We’re extremely grateful to Persimmon Homes and hope this marks the start of a strong partnership.”

William Smith, senior regional apprenticeship manager at Persimmon Homes, said: “Providing students with access to quality materials is vital in helping them develop the practical skills and confidence needed to succeed in the construction industry.

“We’re delighted to support North East Scotland College with this donation and help ensure learners can maximise their time on the tools. As Persimmon continues to grow in the North East, we want to play our part in supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople.”

In Glasgow, Persimmon Homes donated over £1,000 worth of bricklaying tools to Glasgow Kelvin College’s Springburn campus. This one carried a personal dimension: it was made in memory of Ronnie Muir, a lecturer who spent 34 years training construction students there before his death in 2025 and who had been working to improve students’ access to equipment.

MSPs Ivan McKee and Paul Sweeney, Iris Duane, and Councillor Graham Campbell attended the handover.

Robin Ashton, vice principal education, skills and student success, said: “We’re grateful to Persimmon for this generous support. Access to industry-standard tools helps our students build the skills, confidence and experience needed to move into construction careers.”

Ivan McKee MSP said: “A fitting tribute to Ronnie Muir after more than 30 years supporting students, with tools that will benefit future learners.”

Iris Duane MSP said: “I enjoyed visiting the college — courses like this give people the skills needed for the future. Continued support for colleges is vital to help learners move into work.”

Cllr Graham Campbell, chair of the Education Skills & Early Years City Policy Committee, said: “This partnership is helping develop a skilled, work-ready workforce for Glasgow. Opportunities to earn and learn are vital, particularly in communities like Springburn and Easterhouse. Collaboration between colleges, employers and the council supports skills, jobs and economic growth.”

Ian MacPherson, regional apprenticeship manager at Persimmon Homes, said: “Ronnie Muir made a significant contribution over many years and was dedicated to helping students develop their skills. We’re proud to support the college and continue the work he cared about.”