For Roskel apprentice dryliner Kian McIntyre, working at Tain Academy is more than a job - it's an opportunity to leave a legacy of his own. Kian, his mother, father, sister and brother were all educated at primary schools in Tain and Kian is proud that the skills he learnt as a student - woodwork, engineering, metal work and construction - are all being put to good use as he helps to build the new school in his community.
Kian learned about the apprenticeship opportunity through his school’s Developing Young Workforce (DYW) careers advisor and says that working on a live site has given him access to learning opportunities that he's quite literally grabbed with both hands. "I started on site as an apprentice dryliner and had the opportunity to work closely with a skilled tradesman for a full six months. I've really enjoyed learning new skills and improving those I've got with the help of the team on site. I feel that I've contributed to the project by supporting the team to get their work done well - I've been that extra pair of hands when they need it and I've really enjoyed being that support."
Kian is excited to be involved in a project that will bring his community together. "I've lived here my whole life, this is my community - I was brought up here and I'm proud to be working here, building a school that will be so positive for the people of Tain and their future.”
Kian has always wanted to work in construction and says that taking on the role has given him the opportunity to work hard at achieving his dream of someday owning his own business as a joiner and a landscaper. "I started my apprenticeship at just 16, that just shows you that if you put your mind to something early on, and you work hard and take every opportunity that comes your way, you can achieve your goals."
About Tain Community Campus
Kier is building Tain Community Campus with The Highland Council. The new school will be replacing the current Tain Royal Academy, Craighill Primary school, Knockbreck Primary school, and St Duthus School with a new campus for learners aged 3 – 18.
To date, 32 apprentices have been supported on the project and £43m worth of social value has been delivered in the community. This includes 39 education engagement events, 1889 school pupils engaged, £11,500 in local charity donations and 35 new local jobs created.
Phil McDowell, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said:
“This project is about more than building a school, it’s about making a lasting difference to the people of Tain by creating local jobs, developing local skills and giving the community sustainable opportunities to make a positive impact where they live.”
Cllr John Finlayson, Chair of The Highland Council's Education Committee, said: "Mark and Kian are excellent examples of the hardworking people within our communities and both demonstrate the many opportunities that an apprenticeship can open you up to in your professional career. I am delighted that we have such dedicated people working together on this project to build what will be a fantastic asset for the people of Tain."
