Building Futures: Kilmac, Robertson Tayside & Perth High School Unite

Kilmac, in partnership with Robertson Construction Tayside and Perth High School, is delighted to announce the completion of an innovative pilot project aimed at introducing the younger generation to the construction industry. This "Taster into Construction" programme was specifically designed for S3 pupils who have shown a keen interest in construction, providing them with a hands-on learning experience and a glimpse into potential future careers.

The programme consisted of weekly sessions every Wednesday, from 21st February through to the end of the school term on 19th June. Each session, lasting 2 to 3 hours, offered practical activities and foundational skills in various construction trades.

Project Overview:

Activities: Basic concrete foundations, block paving, brickwork, and joiner work

Supervision: Perth High School teachers and construction professionals, Robertson Construction Tayside and subcontractors on the project.

The programme kicked off with an introduction to the construction industry, including a site visit to the ongoing construction at the new Perth High School. Pupils received a Health and Safety induction and were provided with their own PPE, which included high visibility jackets, hard hats, protective eyewear, gloves, and steel toe cap footwear.

Weekly Schedule:

Week 1: Introduction to construction, site visit, and Health and Safety induction.

Weeks 2 & 3: Concrete foundation work – shuttering, reinforcement, and concrete mixing, placing, and finishing. Basic assessment.

Weeks 4 - 6: Bricklaying – setting up, cement mixing, and laying bricks, including installing brick ties and insulation.

Easter Holiday

Weeks 7 & 8: Completion of brickwork and basic assessment.

Weeks 9 & 10: Block paving – setting up, sub-base preparation, sand laying, block laying, joint sanding, and compaction techniques. Basic assessment.

Weeks 11 - 14: Joiner work and roof finishing – making roof trusses, sheeting roofs, preparing for roof finishes, and applying roof tiles. Basic assessment.

Week 15: Overall review and feedback.

Week 16: Award ceremony.

Conclusion

Kilmac is delighted to play a pivotal role in this project, working alongside Robertson Construction Tayside to support the next generation of construction professionals. We believe that by engaging young minds early on, we can inspire a passion for the industry and help cultivate the skills needed for future success.

We extend our gratitude to the team at Perth High School for organising this program and a special thanks to Hector McGregor from Kilmac for his dedicated involvement and enthusiasm in engaging with the pupils. Congratulations to the six students who graduated today – your hard work and commitment are truly commendable.

This initiative not only provides students with valuable practical skills but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the construction industry. By investing in these young talents, we are helping to build a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.

Kilmac Champions Community Growth: Transforming Spaces with Street Soccer

Kilmac is proud to announce the successful completion of several significant projects that underscore our commitment to community development and support for local initiatives.

The Change Centre concept, initially developed in 2017, has now evolved into a fully functional multipurpose community hub. Kilmac has been instrumental in this transformation, contributing to the centre’s infrastructure and overall enhancement.

Since 2009, Street Soccer Scotland has been delivering football-themed personal development programs for socially disadvantaged adults and young people across Scotland. Street Soccer Scotland operates as a family, providing a sense of belonging and consistent support for anyone in need. Along with providing various personal development opportunities, such as volunteering and further education, to promote transformational growth.

In June, Kilmac supported the Family Friendly Fan Park for the Euro 2024 opening match event on the 14th. This initiative, part of our community benefit partnership with Robertson Tayside through the As One Partners, allowed us to demonstrate our dedication to fostering inclusive community environments. As part of this commitment, Kilmac installed a shutter and completed a concrete pour to facilitate the installation of a new sign at the entrance towards the reception area of the Street Soccer Scotland facility.

Our team recently completed a 1500x1200 shutter for the venue, which will serve as the foundation for the new sign. This improvement not only enhances the visual appeal of the facility but also signifies our ongoing support for Street Soccer Scotland and its invaluable work in the community.

Kilmac's involvement in projects like the Family Friendly Fan Park and our ongoing support for Street Soccer Scotland highlight our dedication to making a positive impact in the communities we serve. We believe in the power of local partnerships to drive meaningful change and improve the well-being of families and individuals in the area.

Soccer Change - Testimonial

“On behalf of the Change Centre Dundee, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the AS ONE Group for their incredible collaborative efforts.

Your support and input profoundly impacted the success of our EURO Family Friendly Fan Park event, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

In particular, we would like to make a special thanks to Kilmac for your on-going community support in helping with the evolution of the Change Centre Dundee.

We are excited in developing our partnership in the future and are immensely proud to be associated with the AS ONE Group.”

Kyle Fraser

Change Centre Dundee | Social Enterprise Manager

Shutter installed for sign installation

From Student to Site: A Work Placement Journey Unveiled

At Kilmac, we're not just building structures; we're building futures!

We are thrilled to share that while working on the remarkable Perth High School project for Robertson, we are always looking for the next generation of talent, those eager to explore the world of civil engineering.

Meet Andrew, our latest enthusiast!

👷‍♂️ Andrew approached us, captivated by the dynamic environment of the Perth High School site. His eagerness to dive into the heart of the action struck a chord with us, and was given the opportunity to work alongside our team at Perth High School. Here is Andrew's story:

Andrew's Story

'I’m Andrew McKenzie, a 6th year pupil at Perth High School. I’ve been thinking about options for university/career after school not 100% sure which direction I would like to go. I was given the opportunity to get some work experience with Kilmac as wanted to explore Civil Engineering as a potential pathway.

First up, I had to complete online training pass and the test to gain a CSCS card, then attend 1 day Health and Safety course to gain site safety awareness. This was all organised by Kilmac.

Kilmac then kitted me out with all the necessary safety equipment, boots, high viz, rain gear etc and initially I got placed on the Robertson Site at Perth High School, shadowing the trainee engineers.

Everyone on site was very welcoming and happy to share their experience. It was hands on straight away with the opportunity to get involved with surveys, calculations and get familiar with the technology and equipment.

Initially I completed a few weeks on site in the summer holidays and returned again in October as I enjoyed it and thought it was a great experience, I hope to return again in April during the Easter break.

The time I spent with Kilmac helped me realise this is definitely an option for me to consider when I leave school and would be a great company to work for.'

Kilmac awarded groundworks package for Monifieth Learning Campus

Kilmac are delighted to be offered the opportunity to continue their relationship with Robertson Construction Tayside after successfully winning the groundwork’s package for the new Monifieth Learning Campus.

The target opening of the new Monifieth Learning Campus will be Summer 2026. The plan, as with other schools, is to build the new building on the existing playing fields, allowing the current building to be used during construction.

Kilmac works to be undertaken include:

The project again reaffirms Kilmac ethos to ensure repeat business through client and main contractor satisfaction.

Athole McDonald (Commercial Director):

‘We are delighted to continue working with Robertson Construction Tayside and look forward to completing yet another successful project.’

Kilmac's progress on substructure works at University of Dundee

Works commenced to the Innovation Hub substructure foundations at the Robertson Construction Tayside site in Dundee.

Works began on the 9th May 2023 approximately 1 week ahead of schedule.

Our scope of works includes excavation, construction of RC pilecaps, groundbeams, pile cropping.

In addition Kilmac have to construct the main stair core foundations and Lift shaft pit bases comprising a fully waterproofed and gas proofed RC solution to both the laboratory and office buildings.

Following on from the completion of foundations the below slab drainage is planned to be installed followed by the installation of the GRACE gas proofing system which is to be delivered in-house by our skilled operatives.

With an estimated 6 week program works should be completed for follow on slab & superstructure works to enable Robertson and their supply chain partners to maintain the build program.

PERTH FOOTBALL TEAMS ONTO A WINNER 

A PERTH football club has scored new pitch lighting after a cheeky call to the Kilmac team. 

Our contracts manager, Greg Hutcheson, was sounded out by local resident Martin Glen, who had spotted work rolling out on the £80 million Perth High School redevelopment. 

Martin wondered what was planned for lighting columns and floodlights which were being removed from the MUGA pitch. 

The upshot was Greg and the team pulling out all the stops to support a successful community club based at Tulloch Park. 

Martin admits Fair City Kids and East of Scotland Division One side Kinnoull are onto a winner, thanks to Kilmac, main contractor Robertsons and Cupar-based Iron Mix. 

“Fair City Kids teams had been training on the site so we were aware of the plans for the new High School,” said Martin. 

“The idea of approaching Kilmac came from a flippant comment at one of our matches and I had spotted their vans at the High School. 

“It was a case of nothing ventured, nothing gained. 

“The upshot was a phone call on spec to Kilmac. They have come up trumps along with main contractors Robertsons. Everyone has been incredibly supportive. 

“The lighting will allow us to train during the long dark winter nights, possibly on an area next to the enclosed pitch. 

“With spring round the corner, we are in no rush so we will take our time to map out the detailed plans. This will be a summer project. 

“We want to make the most of this very welcome, but entirely unexpected gift. 

“Hopefully we can secure backing from another local business to help with the cost of concreting the pylons into the ground.” 

Fair City Kids are coaching youngsters from tots from three-years-olds up through the age groups. It has blossomed under the leadership of chairperson Gail Hamilton and her support team. 

“There are around 600 youngsters involved every week, along with 72 on the coaching side of things. We also have 20-30 refugees attending,” said Martin. 

“The girls section covers U8, U10 and U12 and the women’s team plays at football festivals every month.  

“We are in the process of a tie-up with Kinnoull, who are based near Tulloch Works.  

“It’s a work in progress but the concept would be to become a feeder club and produce players at that level in years to come.” 

Greg Hutcheson said Kilmac was delighted to support the Fair City Kids. 

“Our main clients, Robertsons, gave the green light to gift the equipment to the club,” he said.  

“It’s great that the columns and the 24 halogen lights can be recycled and benefit the local community. 

“The MUGA was only around six-years-old so it’s all in very good condition. The galvanised columns look good as new.  

“The biggest challenge was working out how to get them to the park in Tulloch. From tip to toe the columns come in at 17 metres. 

“Thankfully Martin Smith at Cupar-based Iron Mix wanted to help out the club and they arranged a flatbed to transport the pylons from the High School to Tulloch Park.” 

Martin Glen of Fair City Kids and Kinnoull groundsman Kevin Graham flank Kilmac contracts manager Greg Hutcheson, with Kilmac trio Ryan Wann, Jamie Smyth and Lawrence O’Brien set to unload hefty lighting columns at Tulloch Park. 
Martin Glen and Kinnoull groundsman Kevin Graham with floodlights which have been recycled from Perth High School. 

Kilmac set to deliver Groundworks package at Innovation Hub

Client: Robertson Construction Tayside                                                        

Commencement Date: March 2023 – July 2024                                 

Main Contract Duration: 16 months

Kilmac are delighted to be offered the opportunity to continue their relationship with Robertson Construction Tayside after successfully winning the groundwork’s package for the new University of Dundee Innovation Hub.

The building comprises Lab space and associated rooms, offices, Break-out spaces, a large reception atrium and a café.

Kilmac works to be undertaken include:

The project again reaffirms Kilmac ethos to ensure repeat business through client and main contractor satisfaction.

Richard Todd (Construction Director):

‘We are delighted to continue working with Robertson Construction Tayside and look forward to completing yet another successful project.’

University of Dundee - Innovation Hub

Kilmac to deliver groundworks package for new Passivhaus Perth High School

Client: Robertson Construction Tayside                                                        

Commencement Date: February 2023                       

Main Contract Duration: 82 weeks across 3 phases

Kilmac are delighted to be offered the opportunity to continue their relationship with Robertson Construction Tayside after successfully winning the groundwork’s package for the new Perth High School. The triangular-shaped building will be built over three levels to Passivhaus standards.

The new school will be built within the grounds of the existing Perth High School on Perth’s Oakbank Road. The current school is in the southern part of the site. The new school will be built on the western part with pupils continuing to be taught in the current school building during construction.

Once the new building is complete the old school will be demolished. The final phase will be landscaping and forming the remaining pitches.

Kilmac works to be undertaken include:

The project again reaffirms Kilmac ethos to ensure repeat business through client and main contractor satisfaction.

Athole McDonald (Commercial Director):

‘We are delighted to continue working with Robertson Construction Tayside and look forward to completing yet another successful project.’

Perth High School