South Scotland MSP Emma Harper has marked National Apprenticeship Week with a visit to BSW Timber in Dalbeattie.
The company was named Youth Employer of the month in February by Skills Development Scotland.
The Group is the UK’s fully integrated forestry company – and employs 150 people across their site at Dalbeattie.
Ms Harper commented:
“BWS Timber was named Youth Employer of the month because of its commitment to growing talent and investment in its employees. The company employs 30 apprentices – including Scotland’s first female saw doctor!
“The group offers good jobs in rural areas – which can sometimes be challenging to find – so I am happy to support the work they are doing; recognise their good employment practices, and the opportunities they are offering young people locally.
“It is a priority of the Scottish Government to deliver 30’000 new apprenticeships by 2020 – which we remain on course to do. The fact we have over 500 more Modern Apprenticeship starts than the same time last year is great news to kick off this year’s Apprenticeship Week.”
Ms Harper’s motion to Parliament recognising the work of BSW:
“S5M-10029 Emma Harper (South Scotland) (SNP): BSW Timber, Youth Employer of the Month—That the Parliament commends BSW Timber, which is near Dalbeattie, on being named Youth Employer of the Month by Skills Development Scotland; recognises that the company was nominated due to its commitment to growing its own talent, its investment in its people and its offering opportunities to progress; celebrates the significant contribution and impact that the business makes to the area’s rural economy and the community; recognises the hard work of all of its staff, and wishes them well.”
