A city bricklaying apprentice has spoken of the work he is doing with a leading housebuilder. 

Thomas Robertson, 20, trains on-site in his bricklaying apprenticeship and his work covers a range of Keepmoat developments and includes apartments, city terraced homes and detached properties.

He is one of 51 apprentices selected by Keepmoat for its apprenticeships and training schemes to tackle the skills shortage the construction industry is facing.

As the construction industry faces a severe shortfall of skilled workers with an added demand for 30,000 professionals by 2026, Keepmoat introduced the scheme to develop young people and create career opportunities across Scotland.

Thomas said: "I wanted to get stuck into the more practical aspects of the course and get on site.

"The idea of gaining valuable experience whilst studying and also getting paid has always appealed to me. I much prefer being on site and I’ve learnt so many skills since starting my apprenticeship.

“I’m a hard worker with a good work ethic and I've always been skilled at practical tasks and building things, so the construction industry has always seemed like a good fit for me, career wise.”

Drew Kirson, site manager at Keepmoat, said the team is pleased with Mr Robertson's progression throughout his apprenticeship, adding: "Our apprenticeship schemes are a testament to Keepmoat’s commitment to delivering key skilled workers into the talent pipeline in the face of a skills shortage.

“We look forward to watching our apprentices excel in their roles and become the new generation of much needed bricklayers.

"There are so many progression opportunities within industry and we are excited for the future of our bricklayers.’’