The sessions form part of the business’ ‘Pathway to Construction’ project and were led by The JR Group’s managing director Gary McGregor, quantity surveyor Adam Barrett and administration manager Gayle O’Hear. The team delivered a presentation discussing the many careers across the business, from trade and site management roles to commercial and administrative pathways.

Following the presentation, pupils were invited to take part in additional workshops designed to build their understanding of the sector and the skills needed to pursue a career in construction.

During the workshops, students also gained practical experience with The JR Group’s quantity surveying team, learning how drawings are measured and projects costed using plans from the nearby Coshneuk Road development, which The JR Group is progressing on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council. Pupils explored site, floor and roof layouts, and discussed the requirements and challenges involved in delivering new affordable housing.

The programme concluded with interviews to give pupils experience of the recruitment process, after which two pupils were selected for work experience placements at The JR Group’s Coshneuk Road site.

If their work experience is successful, The JR Group will be offering two new roles within the team for the students once they have completed their studies.

Gary McGregor, managing director of The JR Group, said: “We’re proud to have a team with a wide range of experience, and it’s important that we share that knowledge to help inspire the next generation of construction workers.

“Through our Pathway to Construction sessions at Chryston High School we’ve seen fantastic enthusiasm from pupils who are keen to learn more about the work we do and the different routes into the industry.

“It’s been great to see so many students get involved, and to be able to welcome the two selected pupils on site where they met the team, developed new skills and gained hands-on experience on a live housing development.”

Coshneuk Road, Millerston is The JR Group’s first housing development delivered in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council, transforming a former council depot into 17 new homes. The development includes a mix of one- and two-bedroom flats, two, three and four-bedroom houses, and an accessible bungalow.