Scaffolder training centre set for autumn opening

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Aset International Oil and Gas Training Academy project is aimed at meeting growing demand for scaffolding courses in the northeast.

It is hoped the 7,000sq ft-plus facility will be ready for its first intake of apprentices and trainees by autumn.

CITB is investing £500,000 in the centre, including £300,000 towards building costs and a further £200,000 on training over the first three years of operation.

Aberdeen-based Aset – a wholly-owned subsidiary company of NESC – is spending more than £500,000 on the construction project, having also invested in the land and existing infrastructure.

Aset was named preferred bidder to take the project forward in November, and a training contract was formally agreed earlier this year.

Graham McPhail, head of education and training at CITB, said: “It is fantastic to see this project moving ahead at pace and the structure of the building really taking shape.

“This will provide Scotland with a stunning new training facility preparing the next generation of scaffolders for their career.”

Aset chief executive Atholl Menzies added: “We are anticipating a very positive response from employers and individuals alike to the portfolio of courses on offer, which are in the process of being finalised.”