Inverness College UHI is at the heart of a ground-breaking scheme aimed at encouraging more young people to consider careers in the construction industry.
It has teamed up with West Lothian College for the initiative, which is driven by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Skills Development Scotland (SDS).
CITB and SDS worked with the two colleges, secondary schools and employers to develop the new foundation apprenticeship in construction.
A total of 50 year five students in the Highlands and West Lothian will enrol for the scheme when they return from their summer holidays.
It is modelled on the existing modern apprenticeship (MA) in civil engineering and offers teenagers the opportunity to complete the first year of an MA while still in full-time education.
The new foundation apprenticeship has already been recognised as a formal route into a professional career by industry bodies including the Institution of Civil Engineers and Civil Engineers Contractors Association.
It is said to be the first of its kind in construction and is intended to give young people a chance to gain valuable work experience and industry-recognised qualifications alongside their highers and advanced highers.
Students completing it can gain direct entry into the second year of an MA, improve their chances of gaining entry to college or university, or go directly into employment.
Iain King, programme development manager at Inverness College UHI, said: “There are a growing number of civil engineering opportunities in the Highlands and islands that will require a skilled workforce.
“I am thrilled at the prospect that young people from the local area could be inspired to be a part of it.”
West Lothian College has set a target of securing 50% participation from girls and both colleges are keen to break down some of the real and perceived barriers to a career in construction.
CITB Scotland strategic partnerships director Phil Ford said: “This new foundation apprenticeship will help young people make the transition from school into work by giving them a range of vocational skills and knowledge that will make them more employable.
“Progression routes at the senior phase of school have been a key theme in the (Scottish Government) Youth Employment Strategy and CITB is delighted to be supporting this innovative new initiative.”
SDS senior director Neville Prentice added: “The expansion of foundation apprenticeships will play a major role in tackling youth unemployment and ensuring that young people have the education, skills and work experience they need and employers want.
“Our ambition is to expand foundation apprenticeships across Scotland, focusing on key growth sectors of the economy.
“Through strategic partnerships with CITB, West Lothian College, Inverness College, and by working with local schools, employers, pupils and parents we plan to create many more foundation apprentices and build Scotland’s reputation as a global leader in construction.”