A NEW construction training academy has launched at West College Scotland's Paisley campus.

It is one among five colleges in Scotland which have collaborated with the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) to deliver the NPA in Construction Operations. 

It allows applicants from different backgrounds to apply as it has no entry requirements.

This 18-week course, aimed at school leavers, concludes with a definite job interview on successful completion.

The hands-on nature of the training programme, offered by the academy, covers all aspects of health, safety at work and wellbeing.

This involves exploring services, digging, reinstatement of ground, handling kerbs, concrete and drainage.

Dr Lee Coutts, assistant principal of Creativity, Technology and Skills at West said: “The creation of a skilled civil engineering workforce is essential for Scotland’s future economy.

"West College Scotland is proud to partner with CECA and local contractors on this pioneering programme, creating a pipeline of talent to support the country’s ever-growing infrastructure and provide an exciting career opportunity for local young people in our community.”

For more information, visit https://www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk/courses/construction-building-services/ceca-scotland-academy-construction-operations.