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The event was run to help promote the project during which ten new schools will be constructed. It was open to every fifth and sixth year pupil with an interest in a career in the construction industry in all of the Council's twelve secondary schools. The top prize was a laptop computer, an iPod, university sponsorship, vacational employment and a full time job with Carillion Building following the successful completion of the university course.

Anton and his fellow pupils were put through their paces by the judges John Rooney ,Director of Education and Leisure, Renfrewshire Council, Angus MacInnes, Carillion Project Director, Andreya Aswell, Carillion Graduate Recruitment Adviser and Ron McNeil retired, formerly of Understanding British Industry. Anton impressed the judges by making a presentation on 'Sustainability' and answering questions on why he wanted to work in construction.

Scott Moffat, 18, from Johnstone High School, and Craig McFee, 17, from Gleniffer High School each won the runners up prizes of an iPod and the offer of vacational employment at Carillion. Pupils from Paisley Grammar and St Andrew's Academy also reached the final stages.

Winner Anton Young was thrilled with his success. He said: "It was fantastic to win this prize. I am really looking forward to starting my university course at Glasgow Caledonian University after the summer and the sponsorship will be extremely helpful. I have always wanted to work in construction as it is a family tradition. My dad was a quantity surveyor and my brother has recently finished his course in surveying. The best part of the prize is getting to work on site with Carillion. I have already begun my vacational employment - the QS work is really interesting and I am certain this will help me with my studies. To be offered a job at the end of my course is amazing and I am really grateful for getting this chance and for all the support I was given from my family and St Brendan's High. Of course, winning the laptop and i-pod is also brilliant and it goes without saying that I will get good use out of them. "

Councillor Roy Glen, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Lifelong Learning and Work Policy Board, was highly impressed by the standard of the presentations. He said: " I was really pleased to see so many pupils interested in taking forward a career in the construction industry. This is an excellent prize for Anton as, in addition to receiving support with his further education, he will also be given hands-on work experience and a guaranteed job at the end of his course . The standard set by all of the entrants was exceptional and Anton is a well deserving winner. I am sure he will have a very successful career and I hope he enjoyed the experience this event brought him."

David Liming, Carillion National Building Manager Director, added: "We are delighted to be able to offer this great opportunity to Anton. He is an outstanding pupil and should do extremely well in his chosen career as a quantity surveyor. Carillion is a major employer of graduates and we tailor our programmes of training to meet individual needs and goals, with support being provided by personal mentors. I would like to thank all of the pupils who took part and I wish all of them every success in the future".

Press Release: Tuesday 11 July 2006