TEENAGERS at five county schools have taken advantage of a training scheme which helps them build towards a career in the construction industry.

Dozens of 15 and 16-year-olds have joined Worcestershire Housing Association's fifth annual building project.

The scheme allows budding builders, electricians, plumbers and carpenters to gain hands-on experience of the job, while training for a Building Craft Occupations Foundation Award.

Students learn about the industry for two days a month at Worcester College of Technology, and work alongside qualified experts for another two days.

Qualifications

"This project is designed to raise self-confidence and provide a clear link between education and employment," said Ken Hazeldene, the housing associations operations manager.

"Many of our past pupils have used their qualifications to gain employment in the construction industry and I am confident this trend will continue for this year's intake."

One former student who has made the most of the scheme is 17-year-old Ian Phillips, from St John's, in Worcester.

He took part in last year's project and was taken on as a trainee electrician by M Hunt Electrical Contractors Ltd, in Meadowbank Drive, St John's.

"I always knew I wanted to work in construction, as I like working with my hands, but I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do," said Ian. "The project was great as it let me take part in all of the building trades and decide what I enjoyed most.

"And then, when we finished, those of us who took part in the project were ahead of others in being able to get a job - we were handed an opportunity on a plate.

However, the trainee electrician had a warning for anyone thinking the scheme was an easy option.

Partnership

"It's fun and it helps you get a career, but don't think it's an easy ride. If you don't bother to work and don't turn up you will be kicked off - it's up to you to make the most of it."

The project is run in partnership with Worcestershire County Council and the Construction Industry Training Board, and attracts funding from the Learning Skills Council and Advantage West Midlands.

This year's students, in Years 10 and 11, are from Bishop Perowne High School, Christopher Whitehead High School, Elgar Technology College and Nunnery Wood High School in Worcester, and Droitwich Spa High School.