Establishing in 1987, James Paterson & Sons is proud to work with some of Scotland’s largest house builders including Cala, Miller and Taylor Wimpey to name just a few. Dedicated to providing the highest standards and service to all their clients, in a controlled, safe and professional manner, James Paterson & Sons is one of Central Scotland’s largest plumbing contractors and are committed to continue to develop and grow their skilled workforce. 

Working closely with Curriculum Enhancement Lecturer Lee Clark and his team, the Academy was established to give students the opportunity to gain live industry experience with James Paterson & Sons covering all areas of plumbing and heating works within new house building alongside learning the skills and knowledge at College to prepare you for a Plumbing and Heating apprenticeship.  

Lee said:

"We are over the moon that James Paterson & Sons have come to us to work with them. We have a really good relationship with them and have worked with them for the last decade. They have a large and ageing workforce so they are looking to take on apprentices who already have the skills they need, and that is our job.”

He continued "I think they were impressed with our set up during Covid-19 when we quickly introduced online learning, and then we were back in the workshop as soon as possible to deliver the practical side."

On completion, James Paterson & Sons will be offering the opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship with the company. So, if you are a driven, enthusiastic, hardworking individual and fancy a career change or are ready to take your first steps into the Construction industry then apply now! On application for the course, candidates will complete an interview and sit the SNIPEF skills test.

Lee added:

"What we are trying to do is send our students out ready to take on an apprenticeship and we have had a good success rate. We give our students the life skills as well, with good time keeping and getting used to public transport, so that they are ready made apprentices when they start working. We want to make sure they are matched with the industry and want to take on an apprenticeship."

To date 10 students are currently on track to completing the Academy with hopes of progressing to successful roles. The next intake will take place in January 2024.