ROBERTSON Group has revealed it has helped 1,000 young people across the UK prepare for employment or education though its Ideal Candidate Programme.
Launched in 2017, the initiative brings together education and industry to provide hands-on experience and develop skills that participants will carry forward into any career they choose.
The eight-week programme is primarily designed for those approaching school-leaving age, although has also been tailored for college students and employability groups. Participants take part in four sessions covering employer expectations, CV writing, social media awareness, and interview preparation.
In Scotland, individuals can gain SCQF Level 3 & 4 Certificate in Employability Skills through the programme, which is delivered in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce, a Scottish Government initiative to integrate education and employers as part of the Young Person’s Guarantee. Elsewhere in the UK, Robertson works with local partners and colleges to benchmark or accredit learning.
Lorraine Thomson, teacher and DYW coordinator at Beath High School, said, “The programme is great as it allows a group of targeted young people, schools and industry partners to link up and create meaningful, real-life experiences whilst developing the young people’s employability skills. This is made more meaningful as it comes from industry experts and educators.”
Elliot Robertson, CEO, Robertson Group, added, “Ensuring that young people are ready for the world of work is just one of the many initiatives that we run in the communities where we operate. Having established this programme, seeing 1,000 candidates complete the course brings us an immense sense of pride.
“As an industry, we need to address the skills shortage and gaps that are impacting our sector, although the course is suitable for any career path, if we are able to attract more young people to consider a career in construction then we are assuring a sustainable future and work ready generation to keep the construction industry thriving.”
Graeme Hannah, director of sustainability and social impact, Robertson Group, said, “We launched the Ideal Candidate Programme to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing individuals with a stepping stone into the world of work. Our regional businesses carry out the programme across the UK, working successfully with local schools and organisations close to our projects. This way, we can provide real opportunities which deliver many socio-economic benefits for the local communities where we work.
“Reaching 1,000 participants is a fantastic milestone and one that we look forward to building on with support from our partners and dedicated teams.”
Upon completing the programme, many participants have been given the opportunity to enhance their experience through work placements or employment opportunities with Robertson or businesses that support the programme.
