city of Glasgow college Archives - Urban Union Ltd

A memorandum of understanding has been signed between regeneration specialist Urban Union and the City of Glasgow College to provide meaningful work experience for students studying courses related to the built environment.

Urban Union has worked in partnership with the college over the last five years, and the signing represents a formal commitment to support early careers while encouraging more young people into the construction industry.

The memorandum of understanding has a focus on improving the outcome and impact of social value; widening access to roles within the industry; improving and aligning skill sets to industry needs; and further supporting students’ educational experience.

Urban Union hosts a work experience programme for City students to develop skills in order to bridge the gap between the classroom and the live work environment. It also supports the wider curriculum through guest speakers and collaboration across other faculties.

In addition to gaining practical experience with an assigned mentor, Urban Union fund Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards for participants to support future opportunities and employment.

Urban Union guarantee all students who are studying a relevant course the opportunity to participate in the work experience programme.

MD Neil Mckay said, “The memorandum of understanding reinforces a shared commitment to provide young people with meaningful opportunities and the skills development they need to kickstart their career. Since the beginning of our relationship over five years ago, we have been encouraged to see more females seek out careers in the built environment which provides excellent opportunities for all.

“It’s a privilege to be able to give students the opportunity to gain site experience, providing them with a point of difference when it comes to joining the world of work. City of Glasgow College is a valued partner, so we are delighted to formalise our collaborative efforts alongside supporting its vision to deliver world class learning for individuals.”

Andy Pollock, associate dean – construction, City of Glasgow College, added, “This allows us to further consolidate our relationship with Urban Union and Robertson Construction to the benefit of our students and the wider sector. By providing early experiences and insights into the exciting and rewarding career opportunities within the sector, we can support inclusion and diversification to meet the skills demand for the future.”

Students will spend time on-site at either Laurieston or Hamiltonhill, where Urban Union is delivering developments with Glasgow City Council, New Gorbals Housing Association and Queens Cross Housing Association.

Empowering Communities: Urban Union’s Impact in Action (March Roundup)

During the first months of the year, our Community Impact Team continues to show high levels of commitment and enthusiasm for local residents and the neighbourhoods in and around our developments. Not only through leading their own events, but by participating in local initiatives and volunteering their time, skills and expertise were possible.

One such event saw special emphasis on school engagement during Scottish Apprenticeship Week (4th – 8th March). Our team are dedicated to nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for the next generation.

 

Urban Union providing knowledge and experience of the construction industry to school students

Showing support for Scottish Apprenticeship Week with schools outreach

During Scottish Apprenticeship Week, the team took proactive steps to inspire the next generation of skilled workers. At our Hamiltonhill Living development, we welcomed students from John Paul Academy in Glasgow, offering them a first-hand, on-site look into the every-day operation, opportunities and roles available within a construction environment. It’s our hope that this visit provided valuable insight and hopefully sparked some interest for potential careers in the sector from those attending.

We also participated in the Developing The Young Workforce (DYW LED), Step into Future Jobs Event at the City of Glasgow College, where we introduced the idea,  practicalities and rewards of working in the construction sector to students eager to explore diverse career paths.

And finally we led mock interviews at Springburn Academy in Glasgow, equipping students with the essential skills and confidence needed for their professional journeys post-secondary education.

 

urban union and city of Glasgow College solidify partnership with apprenticeship programme

Creating a lasting partnership with City of Glasgow College – Memorandum of Understanding Signing

Our support doesn’t just stop at school leavers, we continue to nurture our relationship with today’s younger people as they continue into college.

This month, Urban Union, Robertson Group and the City of Glasgow College reaffirmed their commitment to social values and community benefits by signing a new Memorandum of Understanding. This document outlines our shared dedication to advancing sustainable practices and also ensuring inclusive growth within the building sector. This is done by offering on-site experience to pupils of the college and hosting seminars within the college.

Pictured here is Urban Union’s Managing Director, Neil McKay alongside Andy Pollock signing the Memorandum with Eilidh Morris, Social Impact Manager at Urban Union.

 

urban union team donate skills to assist local primary school

Supporting St. Conval’s Primary School by offering our team’s services

This month we had the privilege of supporting St.Conval’s Primary School in their eco-friendly initiatives. Volunteering our team’s time and joinery skills, we crafted custom planters to enhance their eco-garden project. The main aim of which is to build some environmental awareness among the students and get them to start thinking more around a greener planet.

 

urban union creating positive community engagement with the organisation of school programmes and workshops, as well as community events

A summary of March and our Community Impact Team’s efforts

As we reflect on our efforts this month, we’re reminded again of the impact that collective action can have on communities.

Social Impact Manager, Eilidh Morris is delighted with the progress, saying “We’ve had a busy spell within the Social Impact team, particularly with the opportunities to engage with young people. Our school and college engagements have given our team the opportunity to speak to students who perhaps were a little unsure of what they  are wanting to do in life. It is our hope that these engagements have given some confidence and inspiration to the young people.

And that’s what we’re about at Urban Union. Although a home builder at heart, we want the communities we create, and those who live in them, to thrive.”

Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing community initiatives and partnerships. Together, we’re making a difference, one step at a time.