Following a £200,000 investment, the upgraded academy has been repurposed and expanded to accommodate a growing number of apprentices, reinforcing Sidey’s long-term commitment to workforce development and sustainable growth. The enhanced facility will provide expanded training capacity as the company continues to develop skilled professionals from within and strengthen its commercial teams across Scotland.

Since 2022, Sidey has supported 38 apprenticeships, achieving an exceptional 97% completion rate. The company currently has 20 apprentice installers, with 15 now fully qualified, and the creation of six new installation teams.

Apprenticeships delivered through the academy include:

• Modern Apprenticeships in Glazing
• Fenestration Installation
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Business Administration
• Graduate Apprenticeships in Business Management

The investment directly supports Sidey’s strategic growth ambitions, helping to address industry-wide skills shortages while contributing to Scotland’s broader economic development.

Sidey originally created its apprenticeship programme in response to challenges recruiting experienced installation teams. Since then, the initiative has successfully generated 15% of the company’s commercial teams, demonstrating the tangible impact of investing in young talent and structured training pathways.

Donna Montgomery, community benefits manager at Sidey Solutions, said: “Investing in young people isn’t optional, it’s essential. SMEs play a crucial role in developing future talent. Sidey is building the skilled workforce our sector and Scotland’s economy urgently need.

“Opening our new Training Academy celebrates Sidey’s ongoing investment and reflects our commitment to the next generation. It’s been an incredibly successful four years since Sidey first created the apprenticeship programme, but we’re not done yet, we’re determined to make it even better!”