Wheatley Group has launched a drive to recruit 37 new Modern Apprentices.

The apprenticeships - which last for two years - give school-leavers from some of Scotland’s most deprived communities the chance to take the first steps in a rewarding career with the housing, care and property management group.

Scottish cabinet secretary for social justice and communities, Alex Neil, helped launch the campaign for new recruits during a visit to Wheatley to help mark Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

The successful candidates will work across Wheatley - including GHA, Cube, Loretto Housing, YourPlace and West Lothian Housing Partnership – and study for an SVQ qualification in a range of business areas including housing, support services and care.

They will also get a generous benefits package and help to find a full-time job when the apprenticeship finishes. Young people don’t need any formal qualifications to apply.

Mr Neil, who met with some young people who are already on Wheatley’s Modern Apprenticeship scheme, said: “Wheatley Group’s commitment to supporting young people plays an integral role in creating a dynamic and experienced workforce, helping Scotland’s industries to thrive.

“Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2016 showcases the positive impact apprenticeships have on businesses and industry, and the value they bring to employers and to their own job prospects.

“More than 175,000 people have undertaken a Modern Apprenticeship since 2007 and we are raising the target to 30,000 annually by 2020 as a result of the overwhelming support from employers and apprentices.”

GHA tenant William Gracie, 23, from Drumchapel, started as an apprentice in 2009, and now works as an enforcement officer based in GHA’s Drumchapel office.

He said: “I did my apprenticeship in GHA’s Knightswood office. Staff were really supportive and I learned a lot. I landed this full-time job last summer and ’m really enjoying it.

“Wheatley is a great place to work. It’s a big organisation and if you get a foot in the door you have a good chance of getting a full-time job.

“Young people should grab the opportunity of an apprenticeship with both hands.”

Since the Modern Apprenticeship programme started in 2009, Wheatley has taken on 196 apprentices.

GHA chair Gordon Sloan said: “We always want to increase opportunities for young people in our communities.

“Our apprenticeship programme can help young people take the first steps in a rewarding career.”

School-leavers from Glasgow should visit www.glasgow.mappit.org.uk

Young people from outside Glasgow email ma@wheatley-group.com.