Russell Findlay MSP visits Blindwells development to celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week

Scottish Conservative Leader meets apprentices and tries his hand at the trades during visit to Persimmon Homes site.

The Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Russell Findlay MSP, and Shadow Education Minister, Miles Briggs MSP, visited Persimmon East Scotland’s Blindwells development in East Lothian as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, meeting the home builder’s apprentices and senior leadership team.

During their visit, Mr Findlay and Mr Briggs were welcomed by Persimmon East Scotland Managing Director Neil Parry and Regional Apprenticeship Manager William Smith. They met several apprentices on site, learning about their training and career development. The pair even tried their hand at some of the trades, experiencing first-hand the skills apprentices gain while constructing high-quality, energy-efficient homes.

One of the apprentices Mr Findlay and Briggs met was Robert Wilson, a 49-year-old apprentice bricklayer from Prestonpans who began his apprenticeship after working as a labourer for 25 years. Robert’s journey demonstrates the opportunities available through Persimmon’s apprenticeship programme, which supports both young people and those seeking a career change in the construction industry.

Persimmon is one of the largest employers of craft construction apprentices in Scotland, offering industry-leading pay and a strong commitment to skills development. The company’s apprenticeship programme provides individuals with the foundation for a successful career in the construction sector, with opportunities in bricklaying, joinery, roofing, and painting and decorating.

Russell Findlay, Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, said:

“It was great to visit this major new housing development to mark Scottish Apprenticeship week.

“Hearing first-hand from Persimmon apprentices confirmed how important they are for this business but also for Scotland’s wider economy.

“The Scottish Conservatives are committed to the expansion of apprenticeships to ensure that similar opportunities I saw today, are available to many more people across Scotland.”

Neil Parry, Persimmon East Scotland Managing Director, said:

“We were delighted to welcome Russell Findlay to our Blindwells development and showcase the fantastic work of our apprentices.

“Scottish Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to highlight the essential role apprentices play in our industry and the range of long-term career opportunities available.”

Persimmon continues to strengthen its partnerships with colleges and training providers, ensuring apprentices across the region receive the best possible start in their careers. The home builder recently announced its fifteenth college partnership in Scotland – making it the largest partner of construction colleges across the country.