CONSTRUCTION graduates are looking to give back to their community thanks to a fruitful collaboration.

The partnership between Blackburn College and Capita is a direct response to the skills shortage affecting the construction industry. It has seen a number of graduates receiving permanent positions with Capita.

The partnership between Blackburn College and Capita has recently been extended and will provide a minimum of 20 work placements to students enrolled at the college, as well as a number of further employment opportunities for students enrolled on an apprenticeship.

Graduate Daniel Sutcliffe, 29, said: “I had a fantastic time at the University Centre at Blackburn College. The atmosphere was friendly and supportive.”

Fellow University Centre graduate Aisha Parveen, 24, also progressed to a permanent role with Capita, as a graduate CAD technician.

She said: “Working on local projects gives me a real sense of pride.”