A MIRFIELD student is one of the first to join a new scheme encouraging graduates to enter the property sector.

Brad Harrison, who is studying quantity surveying at Leeds Metropolitan University, is part of a pioneering scheme led by building company GMI Construction and construction consultancy Rex Procter & Partners.

The companies are collaborating on several construction projects, including the construction of a new Travelodge and Costa Coffee outlet as part of the Spindlegate development at Leeds Road, Huddersfield.

The new initiative, Building For The Future, involves the firms employing two students for a year. The students spend six months with each company.

Brad has begun his six-month stint with Rex Procter & Partners, which has offices in Leeds and Bradford, while Andy Taylor, of Harrogate, who is studying quantity surveying at Northumbria University, begins with a spell at Leeds-based GMI Construction.

Their salaried year in industry forms a critical part of their university courses.

Both firms believe in the importance of nurturing young talent – with GMI managing director Jarrod Best and his counterpart at Rex Procter, Andrew Cooper, both having started work with the firms when they were teenagers.

Said Mr Best: “In these challenging economic times, it is extremely difficult for talented young people to get the jobs they want and need.

“So, we are delighted to offer Brad and Adam to opportunity to learn at first-hand about the world of construction and quantity surveying.”

Mr Cooper added: “The links between GMI Construction and ourselves are very strong and we are extremely pleased to join forces to launch this innovative scheme.

“Brad and Adam should learn a good deal about different aspects of working in property during their year with us, which will help significantly with their degrees.”

Brad said: “I hope to establish a greater understanding of where I want to be in the future and acquire and develop the skills and knowledge I need to allow me to do so.

“I believe that the experience I will gain is invaluable and I hope that the qualification I gain at the end of my university course will reflect that.”

Mr Best said: “If this scheme is successful – and there is no reason why it shouldn’t be – we will look to continue it. After all, it could provide us with our future stars.”

GMI and Rex Procter & Partners have worked together on high profile projects, including a new factory and offices at Thorn Lighting in Spennymoor, a large supermarket and associated regeneration works in Clay Cross and the refurbishment of retail units at Urban Exchange in Manchester.