Matthew will star on the pitch

Matthew will star on the pitch

Matthew Armitage is one of Caley Thistle's latest signings and he hopes to make a valuable contribution on the pitch. 

But Inverness lad Matthew, 23, isn't a player -- he's our first modern apprentice in sports turf management and ground keeping.

Matthew had completed a 6 month course with Caley Jags ground staff through the SPL's Future Jobs Fund and has now been given the opportunity of full time employment by the Club. As well as working at Tulloch Caledonian Stadium, he will study at Elmwood College, Cupar.

Starting just in time for the winter chill, Matthew hit the ground running and has the snow shovel at the ready, but is enjoying every minute of his time at the Club.

"I'm delighted to receive this opportunity", said Matthew, ”and I'm grateful to the Club and to Skills Development Scotland careers adviser Derek Cairns for working together to ensure I was offered a modern apprenticeship. There is a good career to be had in ground keeping and I'm determined to take full advantage of this chance, and what better way to kick start my career than working alongside our award winning grounds man Tommy Cumming."

Club chairman Kenny Cameron said: ”Other clubs could benefit from going down the same route of a modern apprenticeship. We took on six lads through the SPL Trust Future Jobs Fund and although there was only an opportunity for one of these lads for full time employment at the Club, we would give positive references for the other five who were a credit to both themselves and the Club during their spell with us.

"Matthew was a very keen and enthusiastic member of the team when he was on his course here, and made an excellent impression, which is why we made the effort along with Skills Development Scotland to make this happen. In terms of practical experience, he could hardly have a better mentor than Tommy Cumming."

Anthony Standing, SDS Head of North Region Operations is delighted the Highlanders are leading by example in promoting Modern Apprenticeships to the regions young people, “It is really encouraging that Caley Thistle has taken this step by taking Matthew on as an apprentice. I hope this will prove to be an inspiration for other football clubs and businesses to consider Modern Apprenticeships as a practical way to boost employment opportunities for young people across Scotland, but also as an effective way to further develop their workforces at the same time.

“I am very heartened by the actions Caley Thistle have taken and I’m hoping their example will spur other businesses to step forward and give more young people a chance.”