At Raeburn Training, we are proud to support individuals taking meaningful steps toward a career in construction. Through our recent partnership with CCP, this construction academy was funded by City of Edinburgh Council and delivered as part of the Vocational Training Framework (VTF), enabling a group of candidates to gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to enter the industry.
This programme wasn’t just about gaining qualifications- it was about creating opportunities and supporting new beginnings.
The academy provided a strong foundation across key areas of construction, combining both practical skills and essential health & safety knowledge.
Candidates completed training in:
This combination ensures candidates are not only site-ready, but also understand the importance of working safely and sustainably within the industry.
The group brought together individuals from a range of countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, and Sweden. Each candidate arrived with their own experiences, but all shared the same goal: to build a future in construction.
For many, this meant transferring existing skills into a new country.
One candidate explained how they already had hands-on experience:
“I have skills in bricklaying and plastering from home, but I need to get the qualifications in this country.”
Others were entering the industry for the first time, embracing a completely new path:
“My work experience is in the oil industry, so construction is new, but I am flexible.”
The impact of the academy was clear in the feedback from candidates, particularly around the quality of teaching and support they received:
“This course means a lot to me… the teachers have taught us very well.”
“I would just like to give a huge thanks to Raeburn Training and our teachers.”
The training not only developed knowledge but also built confidence- a key factor in taking the next step into employment.
For many candidates, completing the academy represents a direct pathway into work:
“I will be able to get a job in the construction industry.”
“I hope this course will help me to find a new job here.”
With recognised qualifications and practical understanding, candidates are now better positioned to secure roles and begin building their careers.
An important part of the academy was the inclusion of Net Zero Awareness, helping candidates understand sustainability and environmental responsibility within construction.
As the industry evolves, this knowledge is essential in preparing a workforce that is both skilled and future-focused.
For many of these candidates, this training marks the beginning of a new chapter. Whether they are building on previous experience or starting fresh, they now have the knowledge, confidence, and certification to move forward.
As one candidate simply put it:
“I like working… building… everything.”
We are incredibly proud of every individual who took part in this programme. Their motivation, resilience, and willingness to learn is exactly what the construction industry needs.
A special thank you was shared with our instructors, Derek and Douglas, whose support and guidance made a lasting impact on the group.
At Raeburn Training, we remain committed to supporting individuals into meaningful employment and helping to build a skilled, inclusive, and sustainable workforce.
