Apprentices at the University of Glasgow today marked the start of Scottish Apprenticeship Week with the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Economy and Fair Work, Derek Mackay.

Cabinet Secretary video

During a visit to the University’s £1bn campus development, Mr Mackay met the four apprentices currently employed in the University’s Estates and Commercial Services as well as the 35 apprentices working on the Campus Development programme in a range of construction-related roles.

The day also marked the launch of an Apprentice Committee, set up by the University’s principal contractor, Multiplex. It will provide a platform for apprentices to direct their own development, promote opportunities for training and networking as well as enhance representation within the workforce.

Ann Allen, Executive Director of Estates &Commercial Services, said: “Our Campus Development Programme is the largest construction project at the University in 150 years. As with all major construction projects, our success is reliant on recruiting new and diverse talent, with apprenticeships playing a key role in this.”

Barry Morton, Interim Director Facilities and Technical Services, oversees the employment of the four Estates apprentices – three working in Building Services and another in the grounds team. He explained that the University was investing in the future by taking on apprentices as part of its succession planning.

Apprentices video

All four apprentices are contracted for four years and split their time between college or a training facility and hands-on work at the University.

The three apprentices working in the building services section are Katie McKnight, Greg Nisbet and Alan Wilson, while Liam Brookes works as an apprentice gardener.

First published: 1 March 2019

<< 4 March 2019