HEXHAM-based painting firm Ivan Todd Ltd Painting & Decorating has taken on a full-time apprentice after signing up to the Experience Construction work experience initiative run by CITB-ConstructionSkills.

The project aims to give young people an important first step in their construction career and create apprenticeship opportunities in their local area.

Ivan Todd took on Jonathan Stokoe, 18, for a short-term work experience placement in June to give him a taste of working life within the firm to see whether construction was the right career for him.

The partnership worked so well that the company has now offered Stokoe a permanent position as an apprentice within the company.

Stokoe, who lives locally in Hexham, has tried out various careers since leaving school, including working at a local Greggs bakery.

He said: “I was delighted to be given this opportunity, which has led to me being offered an apprenticeship with Ivan.

“The placement meant that I could get real hands-on experience and learn all about the trade before I decided whether it was a career choice for me.”

Company owner Ivan Todd said: “We initially took on Jonathan through the CITB-ConstructionSkills Experience Construction programme as we felt the scheme is mutually beneficial to both the candidate and the company.

“Work experience offers individuals the chance to develop new skills and gain valuable experience in their chosen area of employment with the potential of permanent employment. Jonathan is extremely enthusiastic, reliable and is quick to learn and we are delighted to have taken him on.”

Mick Hamill, regional delivery manager for CITB-ConstructionSkills in the North East, said: “CITB-ConstructionSkills adds value to the industry by working on behalf of employers to bring new blood into our industry through initiatives such as the Experience Construction programme.”