Three more young apprentices are being sought to assist contractors carrying out the refurbishment of Sleaford Leisure Centre in Lincolnshire.

The company behind a new renewable energy plant in the town, Eco2, has agreed to part-fund the apprentices, in addition to two other apprentices that it has already funded as part of its planning agreement with the district council.

The first two young apprentices have been working for RG Carter on the leisure centre and swimming pool development for the last six months, learning skills such as bricklaying and plastering, as well as other construction-related and trade skills.

The apprentices were chosen after a detailed application process held by North Kesteven District Council, involving interviews and a workshop day to test the applicant’s problem solving and practical skills.

Principal building surveyor, Scott Masterman, arranged the apprenticeship scheme and is also co-ordinating the additional apprenticeships which are to be advertised to the public soon and will last for two years. As well as useful on-the-job training, the apprentices will also gain a BTEC National Certificate in Construction through Lincoln College.

It is hoped that the apprenticeship project will inspire other local authorities across the country to take note and take on young people to help with construction projects.

One of the two apprentices already employed on the leisure centre project is Martyn Hardy, 25, a father of one. He told the Sleaford Standard that he sees the construction site manager apprentice position that he is currently doing as a real opportunity for a long-term career, something which would offer him and his family stability for the future.