Jorja Ross

Jorja Ross is well on her way to becoming a painter & decorator and following in her father’s footsteps after completing two construction courses at NESCol.

Jorja opted to study the Foundation Apprenticeship in Construction (SCQF Level 4) at NESCol while she was a third-year pupil at Bucksburn Academy. Her interest in the trade came from helping her dad, a painter and decorator, around their family home.  Enjoying her experience at College, Jorja decided to leave school after fourth year and successfully secured a place on the full-time Construction Crafts (SCQF Level 5) at Altens Campus.

The course allows learners to experience the range of construction trades offered by NESCol, including painting and decorating, plumbing, carpentry, joinery, and bricklaying.

Progression to related employment

Jorja was most interested in the painting and decorating units of the Construction Crafts course and decided to start applying for apprenticeships. She was successful in securing employment with Aberdeen City Council and started working there in August 2024.

Jorja is now back at NESCol on a block release basis while she completes her apprenticeship which means she will attend College for set periods over the next four years.

College experience

Talking about her time at Altens Campus, Jorja said, “I’ve enjoyed coming to College over the last couple of years. I’m a practical person and after doing the construction course while I was still at school, I knew I wanted to get started in the industry.

I’m getting on well with my apprenticeship and I enjoy my time at NESCol. The lecturers are great – they’re helpful, friendly, and really encourage me. The combination of learning on the job and attending College is really good. “

Women in construction

Women are still in the minority in the construction sector and Jorja strongly believes this should change. She said, “I’ve not had any other girls in the classes I’ve been in at College but there are others studying here at Altens Campus.

It felt strange to begin with, but I get on well with my classmates and we have a laugh together. There are so many opportunities for girls in the construction industry so I would encourage anyone interested in a practical career to try it. “