23 June 2026
Skills Academy opens in Alloa to inspire future careers in construction
A new Skills Academy has opened at the site of Clackmannanshire Council’s Wellbeing Hub & Lochies School, giving local people practical insight into construction careers and helping to remove barriers to employment.
Robertson Construction Central East developed and funded the Academy as part of its community wealth building commitment on the project, directly supporting the Clackmannanshire Wellbeing Local Outcomes Improvement Plan 2024-2034.
The dedicated learning space adjoins the construction site, where Robertson Construction Central East is delivering the project on behalf of hub East Central Scotland.
Participants will take part in practical taster sessions delivered by Robertson, its supply chain partners and education bodies including FES, Kilmac and BE-ST. Initial sessions include electrical installation and wiring, groundworks and Passivhaus construction.
The Skills Academy will also be used for the Robertson Reporters initiative, which will see nearby primary school pupils visit the site to track progress and report back to classmates.
Officially opened at a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from Robertson, Clackmannanshire Council, hub East Central Scotland, Developing the Young Workforce, FES and Kilmac, the Skills Academy will run throughout the construction period.
David Cairns, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central East, said: "The Skills Academy will give high school pupils and employability groups the chance to see the variety of careers available in construction and gain practical insight into how major projects are delivered.
"Working closely with our supply chain partners means we can create meaningful experiences that encourage more young people to consider a future in the industry."
Cllr Graham Lindsay, spokesperson for People, said: “I am very pleased to see the opening of the Skills Academy, which will bring on-site learning and development opportunities for local people.
“This is a great example of community wealth building in action and shows how the Wellbeing Hub and Lochies School project is already delivering benefits locally through employment, skills development and community engagement, alongside creating a modern, sustainable facility that Clackmannanshire’s residents will be proud of.”
Brian Craig, Chief Executive, hub East Central Scotland Ltd, said: "The Skills Academy demonstrates the added value that can be achieved through collaboration and a shared focus on delivering lasting community benefits.
"We are committed to creating opportunities that extend beyond the physical infrastructure, helping local people develop skills, gain experience and explore future careers and this initiative will leave a positive legacy for Clackmannanshire while the new Wellbeing Hub and Lochies School is being delivered."
Image shows L-R Kevin Hainey, Construction Manager, Robertson Construction Central East; Graeme Williamson Curriculum Manager STEM & Construction, Forth Valley College; David Cairns, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central East; Aimee Gilchrist, Social Impact Advisor, Robertson Construction Central East, Robbie Stewart, Senior Manager, People Directorate, Clackmannanshire Council; Michelle Carr, Programme Lead for Stirling and Clackmannanshire, DYW Forth Valley; Brian Craig, Chief Executive, hub East Central Scotland
