A group of young unemployed Fifers have been improving their chances of finding work, thanks to an innovative four-week Construction Sector Skills Academy.

Fife’s latest Construction Academy participants received certificates to mark their achievements at an event held at the Skills Development Centre in Kirkcaldy last week.

The Construction Sector Skills Academy, which has given 12 candidates the opportunity to learn skills in a range of trades, including carpentry and joinery, and has delivered health and safety training, was organised by Fife Council and Opportunities Fife partners Fife College, and Kingdom Housing Association.

The success of these employability academies means that young people have support and assistance from start to finish, ensuring a rung up on the career ladder. The academies run alongside the Fife Job Contract, Fife Council’s £2 million investment to address high levels of unemployment for Fifers.

The group is also undertaking work experience with various businesses throughout Fife, helping to increase their industry knowledge and give them hands-on experience to help them confidently apply for jobs, and to develop good interview skills.

Councillor Jim Leishman, Fife Provost, was delighted to be part of the event, stating: “It was great to meet the group and hear about how they have developed and gained skills as part of this Construction Academy. I am confident that they will have the skills and motivation to meet the standards set by construction employers. I wish them luck with their work experience and all the best in their future careers.”

Councillor Tony Martin, chair of Opportunities Fife and Fife Council Youth Ambassador, said: “From our £2 million investment we have created academies to address the gap in employment. We work tirelessly with our partners to ensure that candidates have the skills they need to start their career.

“This Construction Sector Skills Academy has given these young adults access to Modern Apprenticeships available in the construction sector. Our Employability Teams will work with participants after their work experience to ensure they find their way into employment, and I am confident that our candidates will have the vital skills that construction employers are looking for to fill their vacancies. I look forward to hearing about their success.”

Lesley Laird, depute leader councillor and economy and planning spokesperson, added: “Continuing to successfully boost employment for local people is a top priority for Fife Council. The Construction Academy is supporting people in Fife who want to develop the practical skills they need to prepare them for the job market. This is just one of the many ways that we are working to ensure that Fife is the best place to do business, and a great place to recruit staff.”

At the event Alan Russell, Fife Council’s senior manager, housing, thanked local firms for their support on Fife’s Affordable Housing projects and their foresight in training and recruiting staff for the future.

Murray Dunsire, East Fife Joinery, was pleased to be able to participate in the Construction Sector Skills Academy and offer employment to one of the young candidates.

Construction Academy participant Josh Whiting explained that the training delivered was highly useful, enabling him to gain valuable experience and qualifications.

Participant Adam Young added: “The placements chosen match candidate requirements.”