Construction students receive tool donation in memory of much-loved Glasgow lecturer

Persimmon Homes gifts £1,000 worth of bricklaying tools to Glasgow Kelvin College in tribute to Ronnie Muir.

Construction students at Glasgow Kelvin College’s Springburn campus have received a donation of tools in memory of a long-serving and highly respected lecturer.

Persimmon Homes has donated more than £1,000 worth of bricklaying equipment, including trowels and brick hammers, in tribute to Ronnie Muir, who passed away in 2025.

Mr Muir was a well-known figure in construction education in Glasgow, having worked with Glasgow Kelvin College for 34 years. During that time, he helped train and support thousands of students entering the industry.

Colleagues said he was particularly passionate about ensuring students had the right tools and opportunities to succeed, and had been working to improve access to equipment for bricklaying learners prior to his passing.

To honour that commitment, Persimmon Homes — which works closely with the college and employs a number of its apprentices — organised the donation for students at the Springburn campus.

The handover was attended by MSPs Ivan McKee and Paul Sweeney, Iris Duane, and Councillor Graham Campbell, Convenor of Glasgow City Council’s Education and Skills Committee.

Robin Ashton, Vice Principal Education, Skills and Student Success, said:
“We’re grateful to Persimmon for this generous support. Access to industry-standard tools helps our students build the skills, confidence and experience needed to move into construction careers.”

Ivan McKee MSP said:
“A fitting tribute to Ronnie Muir after more than 30 years supporting students, with tools that will benefit future learners.”

Iris Duane MSP said:
“I enjoyed visiting the college — courses like this give people the skills needed for the future. Continued support for colleges is vital to help learners move into work.”

Cllr Graham Campbell, Chair of the Education Skills & Early Years City Policy Committee, said:
“This partnership is helping develop a skilled, work-ready workforce for Glasgow. Opportunities to earn and learn are vital, particularly in communities like Springburn and Easterhouse. Collaboration between colleges, employers and the council supports skills, jobs and economic growth.”

Ian MacPherson, Regional Apprenticeship Manager at Persimmon Homes, said:
“Ronnie Muir made a significant contribution over many years and was dedicated to helping students develop their skills. We’re proud to support the college and continue the work he cared about.”

The donation will support bricklaying students at the Springburn campus, helping them develop practical skills and prepare for careers in the construction industry.