In our latest case study, we share how Jayden overcame his low confidence and lack of qualifications to secure a construction apprenticeship.

Jayden was interested in a career in the trades when he was referred to Move On by Leith Academy, but struggled with low confidence, a lack of qualifications, and no connections to the construction industry.

Our Building Brighter Futures course was a perfect opportunity for Jayden, as it gave him the chance he needed to secure relevant qualifications and practical work experience.

Jayden worked hard to gain industry recognised manual handling and health and safety qualifications. These certificates meant he was able to safely secure work experience in our Move On Wood Recycling workshop, and out on wood collections across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Jayden has also demonstrated his ambition by applying for apprenticeships while on the course. During a site visit with CCG Construction, Jayden asked the site managers lots of questions and was able to secure a week’s work placement learning from an electrician on-site.

We also linked Jayden in with City Access Scaffolding, where he was offered an initial week’s placement in the warehouse shadowing workers. Showing great initiative – and guts! – Jayden asked City access Scaffolding Manager Claire for an apprentice and was offered an extra week of work experience to meet other senior members of staff.

Kirsty, a Director of City Access Scaffolding, says:

“He arrived incredibly shy on his first day, however he has grown from strength to strength in a short space of time and, as a result, has been offered an apprenticeship with City Access.”

Jayden has now happily accepted the offer of a two-year paid construction apprenticeship with City Access Scaffolding.

We’re continuing to support Jayden pass his CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, and gain his CSCS Green Labourer Card. These will help further Jayden’s career in construction.

Building Brighter Futures is an eight week employability course in Edinburgh for young people who are interested in careers in construction, including carpentry and joinery. The course is suitable for young people who are 16-21 years old and at stages 1 and 2 of the Strategic Skills Pipeline