Apprentice call as Barratt North Scotland opens up applications for bricklayers and carpenters in bid to tackle skills shortage
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Starting a new working life and career during a global pandemic has been a huge challenge for thousands of young people across Scotland.
With applications now open, Barratt North Scotland will be recruiting six apprentices in what they say is their ongoing commitment to tackling the skills shortage in the construction industry.
The trade apprentice roles in bricklaying (two) and carpentry (two), along with two technical apprentices, will be based at Barratt developments across the Highlands, North east and Perthshire.
They will also take part in courses from their local college to obtain qualifications and develop their trade skills.
A total of 26 new starts will form part of Barratt Developments Scotland’s 2021 intake, in a number of positions across the business, from Sales and Land graduates as part of their ASPIRE Graduate Programme, to bricklayer and carpenter trade apprentices.
“There’s a misconception that construction is male-dominated but women shouldn’t be put off. If you work hard and show your worth - just like anyone else - you’ll fit right in no matter what, and have a career full of opportunities.” - Jemma Sykes
2021 is seen as a vital year for recruiting new talent into the construction industry with Barratt Developments recognising the importance of offering career opportunities in the areas that they build in, while addressing the current skills shortage. As well as being available to people who have just left school or college and are looking for a new challenge, apprenticeships are also open to those who have already started working towards a career in housebuilding.
Speaking on her experience as an apprentice Jemma Sykes (29) is now a fully qualified joiner with Barratt. “I chose an apprenticeship with Barratt because I wanted to establish a career rather than just a job. I was attracted to it as it offered a lot of pathways and development opportunities, in both college and onsite.
“The first couple of years can be challenging, as you need to know where you have to be and what to do, but the team members around you are great mentors. Over time, I found my footing, and I am now completing another college course to move into a site management role with the firm.
“While the pandemic did throw a spanner into the mix, and changed a lot of our work processes, we adapted really well; and I managed to gain the experience needed to become fully qualified last November.”
When asked for any advice for those thinking of an apprenticeship, Jemma said: “There’s a misconception that construction is male-dominated but women shouldn’t be put off. If you work hard and show your worth - just like anyone else - you’ll fit right in no matter what, and have a career full of opportunities.”
Kevin Urquhart, construction director for Barratt North Scotland, said: “Despite the difficult circumstances over the last year, we hired a cohort of apprentices in 2020 and we’re looking to do so again this year because we are committed to developing raw talent and giving young people opportunities to forge exciting new careers.“By providing candidates with a first-class apprenticeship and opportunities, they stay with us and continue their careers with Barratt. Many of our former apprentices are among our best employees and they’re continuing to develop their skills and experience.All programmes are well structured and tailored to individual needs. Apprentices will receive encouragement, support and guidance to help them develop, giving the skills and qualifications for a successful career.
To find out more about apprenticeship programmes with Barratt Homes visit https://www.barrattcareers.co.uk/early-careers/apprentices
