A GLASGOW-BASED construction and manufacturing group has taken on 17 new trade apprentices for this year.

The new recruits will take the total number of apprentices employed by CCG Scotland across its group of companies to 67 as they make the most of the opportunity to gain valuable on-site experience while studying at college and earning an income.

Jamie Kelly, 20, from Garrowhill is a second-year plumbing apprentice and one of 33 employed in Glasgow and the west.

He is studying at Glasgow Kelvin College in Springburn and is currently based at a 150-home regeneration scheme in Airdrie.

Glasgow Times:

He said: “Since starting my apprenticeship, I have really enjoyed it.

“I have been based on quite a few sites and I have gained a lot of experience.

"I think the most valuable skill I have learned to date is communication; every day is different so it is important to listen, learn and get involved.”

Fellow apprentice Leigh Kennedy, 25, from Alexandria in West Dunbartonshire is also in the second year of her joinery programme with West College Scotland and has praised the diversity that working with the firm provides.

She said: “I’ve worked on three sites so far and have really enjoyed my time with CCG.

“Each project I have been involved in has been at different stages and I have really focused to develop my skills as part of the team.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship.

“The skills that I am learning will be invaluable to the rest of my career and that’s what young people can look towards.”

Glasgow Times:

As the apprentices begin their own career journey, CCG managing director, David Wylie, said: “As a business, CCG are extremely proud that we are able to provide opportunities, year-on-year, to develop and enhance the careers of young people and we all look forward to welcoming our new recruits this August.”