A group of companies across a range of sectors are working together on a programme designed to improve the employability of young people.

Esh Border Construction, part of Esh Group, is behind the Building my Skills scheme in the north of England and is working with a number of partners to bring it to Scotland.

PricewaterhouseCoopers, Peter Brett Associates, Peace Recruitment, Beattie Communications, Brodies Solicitors and The Armed Forces are among the first to sign up.

Schools across five local authority areas in the South and East of Scotland will take part in interactive sessions providing insights on their career path, sector and the employability skills they value.

Simon Phillips (above), regional managing director Esh Border Construction said: “The ethos of Esh Group is firmly rooted in putting something back into the communities in which we operate and that’s why I’m delighted that we’re able to introduce the Building My Skills programme so early on in our growth in Scotland.

“We’ve had great support so far from many of our business partners who share our aims – to provide quality realistic and relevant careers information to the workforce of the future.

“I hope they gain the same rewards we do from inspiring young people to make positive and informed career choices.”

Darush Dodds, head of corporate responsibility at Esh, added: “It is hugely rewarding to work with young people to inspire their career choices and help them into the workplace. The collaborative effort of many different businesses helps schools gain access to a wide variety of skills.”

Delivered across the academic year students receive five one hour sessions.

The Scottish schools taking part are:

·         St Augustine’s High School, Edinburgh

·         Forrester High School, Edinburgh

·         Preston Lodge High School, East Lothian

·         Broxburn Academy, West Lothian

·         Maxwelltown High School, Dumfries and Galloway

·         Galashiels Academy, Scottish Borders