A CONSTRUCTION firm has provided work experience opportunities to young people as part of their long-term partnership with a youth group.

Cubby Construction Ltd has provided the placements through their collaboration with Carlisle Youth Zone since March.

Based at their Head Office, on Kingstown Industrial Estate, three young people participated in a multi-disciplinary programme offering an insight into the entry points and career paths available within the construction sector.

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Maxine Kirkpatrick, from Cubby Construction said: "Our relationship with Carlisle Youth Zone is always incredibly rewarding. After events like this, colleagues always talk about the joy they experience at light bulb moments, when knowledge shared is put into practice and young people realise what they can achieve with a little help.

"This group of young people are a credit to themselves and an exemplar of the talent the construction sector needs to engage with if we are to collectively address the national skills shortage.

"It was a pleasure to host the young people and provide them with a reference to help kick start their careers."

This well-respected local contractor, provided candidates with an opportunity to experience modern tradecraft in a joinery manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and logistics setting, as well engaging with the creative arts in Cubby’s marketing and social media department.

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Ben, from Carlisle Youth Zone, said: "I really liked working with the mechanics at Cubby Construction. I got lots of hands-on experience, working on a car and an electric saw.

"I just wish we had a little more time with them. I would definitely recommend work experience to my friends and I will apply for an apprenticeship at Cubby when I’m older."

Carlisle Youth Zone say they provide a space to allow the young people of Carlisle a safe and fun environment to develop their potential and fulfilment.

Sophie from Carlisle Youth Zone: "It was fun to do something different. It’s nothing like school and we got to see and have a go at a variety of roles within Cubby. I really enjoyed taking photo’s and creating a social media post."