An engineering course delivered in part by construction and infrastructure company Robertson Group has helped introduce a group of school pupil to the industry.
15 students from Eastbank Academy, St Mungo’s Academy and Trinity High School took part in the 10-week ‘Get into Engineering’ programme, which is run in collaboration between Robertson Group, Glasgow Kelvin College, the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) and Clyde Gateway.
The programme is designed to provide academic and practical insight into the application of engineering. Students were assigned work on live Robertson Central projects, carrying out work such as piling and steelwork at Collegelands in Glasgow and an introduction to civil engineering at the Huntershill sports complex in Bishopbriggs. The students also attended training sessions that offered an introduction to mechanical and electrical engineering.
Gemma Gourlay, director of social sustainability, Robertson Group, commented, “This is the third year that we have delivered this programme, working in partnership with Clyde Gateway and the schools to introduce the pupils to the diverse careers available within engineering and the wider construction industry.
“The ‘Get Into Engineering’ programme offers varied activities, allowing the pupils to identify their strengths and interests through practical work, hands-on classroom exercises and talks from industry experts. It’s brilliant to support such a positive initiative that has a lasting impact on the next generation of construction engineers.”
Robertson Group has provided a variety of activities and programmes in collaboration with stakeholder groups, engaging with over 23,500 young people between April 2016 and March 2017, in a bit to promote careers in the construction industry.
Ann-Marie Burns, project manager (education, business and community growth), Clyde Gateway, said, “It’s great to see these young people successfully graduating from ‘Get Into Engineering’ – just one of the many programmes we carry out with Clyde Gateway schools to help prepare pupils for the world of work.
“‘Get Into Engineering’ has proven to be a very popular and successful part of our on-going efforts, and in previous years a number of the young people have pursued engineering further in terms of work, college or university.
“There is no doubt that the involvement of Robertson has been a key component in the achievement of such excellent outcomes, including the enjoyable, interesting and informative site visits.
Ann-Marie added, “The programme also focuses on the essential skills that employers are looking for, such as team working, leadership, problem solving, planning and organising. The selection process that pupils need to go through to get onto the programme, including taking part in an interview, really helps prepare them for what will happen in real life.”
