Budding builders are on track for a new career after cementing their skills.

Nine unemployed 18 to 21-year-olds tried their hands at everything from steel fixing to cement pouring as part of a two-week Get into Construction scheme – including practising their skills at the Chadwell Heath Crossrail site.

Darius Ledeatte-Williams, of Chadwell Heath, says he feels like a “different person” since joining The Prince’s Trust programme last month.

“Before I started I didn’t feel confident finding employment, but now I feel so much more positive and my communication and teamwork skills have improved massively,” admitted the 19-year-old.

Darius has now gained a job with Costain, the engineering provider which helped deliver the Ford Britain Trust-funded project.

“The course has really helped me in my journey,” he added.