Minister for Youth Employment visits Scotland’s largest apprentice-training facility
Published by Anne Marie Hughes on Sat 09 Jun 12 @ 22:16
Angela Constance; John Foley, City Building Managing Director; Graham Chatham (standing) and Darah Michael (seated).
Scotland's Minister for Youth Employment today (Wednesday 16 May) toured Scotland's largest apprentice-training facilities and paid tribute to its employees and apprentices.
City Building employs over 500 apprentices, making it the largest apprentice-training provider in Scotland. Its impressive apprentice training completion rate of 95 per cent - compared to an industry average of 62 per cent - is due to City Building's award-winning training and wrap-around support.
City Building is Glasgow City Council's arm's-length construction company. With turnover of around £200 million, it is the largest repairs and maintenance contractor in Scotland carrying out more than 500,000 repairs every year.
Angela Constance, MSP, and Minister for Youth Employment, said: "I am very impressed with the training on offer at City Building's Queenslie facility. Improving the employability of young people is a key priority for the Scottish Government.
"What we see here is a sensible approach to training young people so they are fully equipped to enter the workplace and take a confident first step onto the career ladder. Credit must go to the staff here who work so hard to maximise the potential of every apprentice that comes through their door."
City Building managing director John Foley said: "We are delighted to welcome the Minister for Youth Employment to see for herself the work we do to make sure young people are given every opportunity to secure a job, with no stone left unturned.
"As one of Scotland's largest construction companies, City Building is very proud to play a big role in tackling youth unemployment. Our apprentices are encouraged to reach their full potential. Our award-winning Queenslie Training Centre and Construction Skills Academy are the focus for the country's largest - and most successful - apprentice-training scheme."
City Building has been innovative in its approach to apprenticeships and has worked with clients, sub contractors, its supply chain and other partners to ensure the opportunities for apprenticeships, whether they are adult, youth or rescued, are maximised.
