Future Trades: Our Bespoke Trade Skills Programme
As a social enterprise dedicated to helping people move into employment, CEIS Ayrshire is passionate about building brighter futures. A key area of our focus is supporting young people, giving them the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.
To help close the local skills and unemployment gap, we’ve partnered with North Ayrshire Council and The Robertson Trust to create a bespoke six-week training programme focused on introducing young people to the trades.
A Hands-On Route into the Trades
The programme begins with a week of classroom-based learning, where participants gain essential workplace knowledge through induction and training sessions covering:
- Teamwork and communication
- Task and time management
- Workplace health and safety
From there, candidates roll up their sleeves for four weeks of practical trade workshops, getting hands-on experience in:
- Bricklaying and plastering
- Plumbing
- Joinery
- Painting and decorating
The final week focuses on preparing for and obtaining their CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) Card, giving candidates a real head start for future employment in the construction industry.
Supported by Local Businesses
Local businesses played a key role in supporting this project through generous donations of tools, PPE, and trade materials — from timber and copper pipes to bricks and more.
A huge thank you to the following companies for their generosity and community spirit:
- McLaughlin Construction
- MAPLE MAINTENANCE LIMITED
- James Frew Ltd
- Sovereign Group Ltd
- JAMES WYLIE & SON LTD
- Arco: Experts in Safety
- AMP Clean Energy
- McTaggart Construction
- Tod Timber Engineering Ltd
Their support has been instrumental in helping us provide young people with the materials and environment they need to gain real-world experience and develop vital trade skills.
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the collaboration between local businesses and community partners, this initiative has become a true community success, designed to give young people the opportunity to gain practical skills, build confidence, and develop resilience and purpose for the future.
Our dedicated team will provide ongoing support to every participant, helping them progress into employment, apprenticeships, or further training opportunities.
If you’re a young person keen to learn a trade and kickstart a meaningful career, our Future Trades Workshop is made for you.
Register your interest today and start building your future with us!
