An opportunity is being provided for S4 pupils to find out what careers are available in the construction industry. Students from Sgoil Lionacleit and Castlebay School will be given an insight into prospective careers in the construction industry when they travel to Balivanich to take part in BuildingSkills 2007.

The interactive careers event is organised by HIE Innse Gall, Construction Skills, Careers Scotland, Lews Castle College and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Education Department. It will be held at East Camp, Balivanich on Tuesday 18th September 2007.

Throughout the day, students will find out about what the construction industry can offer, and how they can use both their individual and team working skills, which are essential requirements for the sector.

East Camp will be divided into zones, giving students the chance to get their hands dirty during some of the interactive challenges on display. They will find out about health and safety in the workplace, engage in hands on experience of carpentry and joinery, brickwork, plumbing, floor laying, electrical and civil engineering.

Representatives from the trades, Careers Scotland and HIE Innse Gall skills team will be on hand to give out careers advice and answer questions from those attending.

Jim Inglis, Construction Skills, said: “BuildingSkills 2007 is a great way to give pupils hands-on experience of the industry as the fun and relaxed environment makes it easier for them to get involved in the activities. Through events such as this we can positively raise awareness about the opportunities available to students choosing a career within the construction industry.

Iain Maclennan, skills team, HIE Innse Gall, said “This is the first time we have been able to take the BuildingSkills model to the southern isles and we would encourage all S4 pupils in the Uists and Barra who have an interest in the construction industry to, come along and try out first-hand some of the many skills on display such as the erection of a scale model of a traditional roof or making up a simple electrical circuit which will then be tested for operation.