Dundee College welcomed nearly 50 'first foots' on Wednesday, when four dozen guys, keen to build a career in construction, were enrolled on the pre-apprenticeship course.

The students, aged between 16 and thirty-something, enjoyed a morning’s induction before taking to the tools over the next 16 weeks when they will have tasters in a range of construction crafts.

The full-time introduction to building course offers participants the chance to experience plumbing, electrical installation, painting and decorating, joinery, brickwork and plastering.

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"We run this course twice a year and usually fill three groups of 16 students," explained lecturer Alistair Mitchell, who enrolled today’s students.

"Those who successfully complete the course really do increase their chances of gaining an apprenticeship in their chosen craft.

"Mature students can be offered a two-year apprenticeship should they want to pursue a career in construction."

The pre-apprenticeship construction course attracts people of ages and from all backgrounds, and while today’s intake was an all-male affair, thee college has had plenty of girls taking part in the past.

"With major capital projects in the pipeline such as the Dundee Waterfront regeneration locally and the new Forth bridge project Scotland still needs properly trained craftsmen."

(GK)