Children encouraged to build on enthusiasm

Househunters looking to buy a house in Scotland may be interested to hear that one property developer has been boosting students’ interest in the construction industry.

Persimmon, which claims to be the UK’s largest house builder, has been encouraging students of Forth Valley College in Falkirk who are interested in a housebuilding career.

By allowing the college-goers to experience the process first hand at its Kinnaird-based site, the company aimed to demonstrate the type of work involved and the benefits of working in the industry.

Site manager Bobby Haston showed the group of 12 around the site and presented detailed information about the different job opportunities within the sector.

"Experiencing the housebuilding sector first hand with a practical talk by one of Scotland’s leading homebuilders has been of great benefit to the students who are demonstrating an interest in the careers available in construction," said Julie Hyslop, lecturer at the college.

"I hope the day has inspired them to take the next step in fulfilling their career goals."

Nearby, a similar scheme has been adopted by Peebles High School, which has been provided with a timber shell from construction firm Muir Homes, in which skilled trades will be taught to pupils.