UNEMPLOYED young people have taken the first step towards a career in construction thanks to a scheme involving the University of Exeter and Cowlin Construction.

A group of 18 to 25 year olds on the Prince's Trust Get Into Construction programme spent two weeks gaining onsite experience at the Streatham campus, where several building projects are currently ongoing.

The aim was to show them the ropes while giving them an opportunity to learn about careers and prospects within the industry, including potential job opportunities and apprenticeships.

It was the first time the charity has been able to offer the opportunity in Devon and Cornwall, thanks to the University Partnership Programme (UPP) project, part of the university's £275 million investment programme.

Sarah Hertzog, of the Prince's Trust, said: "The course has been fantastic, literally enabling disadvantaged young people to build themselves a better future.

"This really does demonstrate the power of partnership between the charity sector and forward-thinking organisations like UPP and Cowlin."

During their time on site those taking part in the scheme attended training courses and gained work experience on live projects, including taster days with carpenters, electricians, plasterers and other tradesmen.

As well as getting tips on interview skills, they completed a site safety awareness course to earn their Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) card, the passport to working on a construction site.

The students gave presentations about their experiences at a celebration event to mark the end of the two-week period. And early indications are that the experience could lead to a job for some of them with subcontractors working on the university development.

Neil Sherreard, divisional managing director for Cowlin, said: "Cowlin's parent company, Balfour Beatty, has supported the Prince's Trust Get Into Construction scheme since it started, so we are extremely pleased that Cowlin has been able to continue this support.

"The students have gained invaluable experience and have taken the first steps towards a career in construction. We hope they take their new-found knowledge and skills on into future careers."

Sean O'Shea, chief executive of UPP, added: "As the leading provider of student accommodation and asset management services we are dedicated to providing training opportunities for young people on our sites.

"UPP is committed to working in a socially responsible way and investing in the communities in which we work. Through this partnership we are helping young people access the skills they need to get on in life and to build a career in construction."

Jeremy Lindley, director of finance and corporate services at the University of Exeter, said: "Our investment programme will create world-class academic facilities and accommodation for our students but it is also providing valuable opportunities for the South West's construction industry, which is a real added bonus.

"With nearly 3,000 staff of our own, we're a major employer always keen to support schemes which benefit the region."