The first scaffolding training centre to deliver apprenticeships and commercial courses in the North East of Scotland has officially opened its doors.

The state of the art facility, which has received over £1 million in investment, is a partnership between the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and ASET International Oil & Gas Training Academy (ASET).

The centre is based at Clinterty in Aberdeen and provides high quality professional training and a comprehensive portfolio of CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) and SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority) accredited scaffolding courses. These will train and upskill the Scottish workforce and benefit both the construction and oil and gas industries.

David Mosley, CISRS Scheme Manager, said: “The possibility of a second CISRS accredited centre in Scotland has been discussed at length. We are delighted that ASET and CITB have built an excellent facility and we wish them a very successful future.”

Nine learners from throughout Scotland have started their apprenticeships this week.

Dundee based employer Kevin Malone of Skyline Scaffolding Ltd, employs apprentice scaffolder Darren Holt, who has just started his training at the new site.

Kevin commented: “I was extremely happy when I heard the new centre was opening. It is long overdue, and will certainly be a great boost for scaffolding training in the area.”

Atholl Menzies, Chief Executive at ASET, added: “This is an exciting time for ASET and CITB as we now begin to realise our vision of creating a centre of excellence for scaffolding training in the North of Scotland. This purpose–built facility is perfectly positioned to meet the demand for accredited training at introductory and advanced levels – from Dundee to Shetland.

“The apprenticeship provision will help to attract new entrants into the industry, making an important contribution to the local economy. The extensive range of commercial courses available will open up new opportunities for employers and individuals alike.