Tain superschool campus apprentices thrive on life-changing opportunity
THE construction of a trailblazing Easter Ross school campus that will bring much of the area’s educational provision under one roof has already proved a life-changing proposition for two local apprentices.
What began as a two-week work experience stint at the Tain campus construction site for Mark Duff turned into the opportunity of a lifetime to confront his anxiety and take a front-facing role on the project.
When Mark’s DWP career advisor suggested he try working on a construction site, he couldn’t think of anything more nerve-wracking.
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He said: “The work experience opportunity came up at a time when I wasn't in a very good place. I had been unemployed for three years and I was grieving the death of my Nan, who I was really close to.
“I was struggling badly with anxiety that was causing me to be quite closed off with people until I knew them well and I was very anxious about meeting new people and talking to them.
“I knew that communicating would be part of the job, but I wanted to face my fears and prove to myself that I could do it.”
With the support of work advisor and Liz McIntyre – Kier’s corporate social responsibility coordinator at the site – he said yes to a work experience - and never looked back: “Working on the site every day and talking to subcontractors, colleagues and clients really helped me to boost my confidence, challenge my anxiety and engage with people more.
“I was nervous at first, but I soon realised that I genuinely enjoy dealing with people and I’m good at it - I love that side of the job”.
With a supportive team his confidence grew daily – and he was soon asked to step into a full-time role – as the very first port of call for anyone coming or going from the site.
An “over-the-moon” Mark is garteful for the trust shown on him thanking his advisor and Liz “who both believed in me and gave me that initial chance".
Like many on the site, he grew up in Tain and is excited to play his part in developing the community.
He said: "The new academy is going to do wonders for the people here, it will bring them together to learn in one amazing space and I'm really made up to be a part of that.”
For Roskel apprentice dryliner Kian McIntyre, working at Tain is more than a job - it’s a chance to build a legacy.
Kian, his mother, father, sister and brother were all educated at primary schools in Tain and he is proud that the skills he learnt as a student - woodwork, engineering, metal work and construction - are all being put to good use.
He learned about the apprenticeship opportunity through his school’s Developing Young Workforce (DYW) careers advisor.
Working on a live sitegave him learning opportunities that he's quite literally grabbed with both hands: "I started as an apprentice dryliner and had the opportunity to work closely with a skilled tradesman for a full six months. I've really enjoyed learning new skills and improving those I've got with the help of the team on site. I feel that I've contributed to the project by supporting the team to get their work done well - I've been that extra pair of hands when they need it and I've really enjoyed being that support."
He added: "I've lived here my whole life, this is my community - I was brought up here and I'm proud to be working here, building a school that will be so positive for the people of Tain and their future.”
Taking on the role has given him the opportunity to pursue his dream of some day owning his own business as a joiner and landscaper: "I started my apprenticeship at just 16, that just shows you that if you put your mind to something early on, and you work hard and take every opportunity that comes your way, you can achieve your goals."
Kier is building Tain Community Campus with Highland Council. The new school will be replacing the current Tain Royal Academy, Craighill Primary school, Knockbreck Primary school, and St Duthus School with a new campus for learners aged 3 – 18.
To date, 32 apprentices have been supported on the project with £43m worth of social value delivered in the community.
Phil McDowell, regional director for Kier Construction, says it is about more than building a school, it’s about making a lasting difference to the people of Tain by creating local jobs, developing local skills and giving the community sustainable opportunities to make a positive impact where they live”.
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