August 2011

Jobseeking youngsters benefit from construction skills training

Ten young jobseekers from Cardiff have had a unique opportunity to gain experience and qualifications in construction thanks to a course run by The Prince’s Trust.

‘Get into Construction’, is a free two week training programme run by the charity, which gives young unemployed people the chance to gain a wide range of skills and qualifications to help them pursue a career in the construction industry.

18-year old Nick Fryer from Canton in Cardiff, said:

I’ve been unemployed since I left college and never had a full time job. I studied electronics and electrical engineering and really want to be an electrician. The practical skills I have learned will really help me to pursue this, and the course has really boosted my confidence.

Nick Fryer, 18, from CantonDuring the programme, which was run in partnership with Carillion, the young people undertook a range of employability skills training including career advice from industry professionals, training in brick laying, carpentry, obtained their Abrasive Wheels certificate and their Constructions Skills Certifications Scheme (CSCS) card – which enables them to work on construction sites.

Rick Libbey, Director of The Prince’s Trust Cymru, said: “We run the ‘Get Into’ programme, in partnership with employers, to give young people who are work-ready a helping hand by giving them a mix of vocational skills, practical training and hands-on experience, then supporting them as they look for work.”

The Trust supports 3,000 young people in Wales and more than three in four move into work, education or training.