The nature of employment in the construction industry is undergoing a sea change with increasing numbers of students realising that the sector can offer rewarding, fulfilling and environmentally sustainable careers.

In recognition of this, the Edinburgh and District Master Builders’ Charitable Trust is making funds available to allow students who wish to join the industry to realise their full potential.

The Trust, which was established as a benevolent fund just after the war then reconstituted in 1999 to widen its remit, aims to advance educational opportunity by giving scholarships to students in local universities and colleges (Heriot Watt University, Napier University, West Lothian College, Edinburgh’s Telford College and Jewel & Esk Valley College) which are involved in skills relating to the building industry.

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It will also provide prizes and awards to the above organisations to encourage skills relating to the building trade.

If funds are available after the above priorities, grants are awarded to individual students according to their need to assist them in the expenses incurred while undertaking courses relating to the building industry. These grants are supplementary to other forms of finance available to students and to help with matters such as the purchase of books or foreign travel.

Michael Levack, Chief Executive of the Scottish Building Federation, said: "The building industry is attracting high-quality, strongly-motivated candidates who are aware that career opportunities are the best for decades. The valuable work of the Edinburgh and District Master Builders’ Charitable Trust in supporting them through their essential studies is greatly appreciated.

"As a professional body, we are proud to support the good work of the Trust and draw the attention of potential candidates to its scholarship and award schemes."

(CD/SP)