Running in the family

Like many boys, Ross Hazel wanted to grow up to be just like his dad.

Now the 16-year-old Dunfermline lad works alongside father Ken as an apprentice joiner at Scotland’s leading provider of windows, doors and conservatories CR Smith. Ken, a manager at the company which was established over 30 years ago, taught Ross the importance of learning a trade from a young age.

But thousands of young people like Ross are at risk of losing their jobs and training because of the current economic downturn. According to Skills Development Scotland (SDS), more than 800 have been made redundant, with only around a quarter of those finding new employment or training. The Scottish Building Federation (SBF) has said it expects apprentice numbers across its membership to drop 36% and some colleges are not expecting a fresh intake of apprentices this year.

The Scottish Government is hosting its first Apprenticeship Summit today (April 28) to aim to address the issue.
Ross said: “It is a worrying time for a lot of my friends who work for other companies. Most thought that once they secured their apprenticeship they would be safe and in a job for four years but it’s not like that anymore. Friends of mine looking for jobs this year are really struggling.
“I really enjoy my work and am glad I decided to do an apprenticeship in joinery.

“There is a good mix between what I am learning at college and what I learn when I am at work. Earning money is not too bad either.”
CR Smith Chairman Gerard Eadie began his career as an apprentice glazier and has been staunch in his support for apprenticeships ever since. He now employs 600 staff.

He said: “Supporting the development of our young workers is imperative to their future success, and for the success of our nation as a whole.
www.crsmith.co.uk