Women, people with disabilities and those from ethnic minority backgrounds are being encouraged to try out construction work at a Midlands college.

Burton and South Derbyshire College is promoting equality and diversity in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and maths), after getting funding to offer free training to under-represented groups.

The college was one of just 44 providers from across the country to make successful bids to the Equality and Diversity Partnership Project Fund, run by the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) and the Skills Funding Agency (SFA).

Sasha Hubbard, science lecturer at the college, said: “The project is giving people who are usually under-represented in STEM subjects the chance to gain an insight into the area. We are committed to defying stereotypes and ensuring everybody has access to these exciting subjects.”

She said the project was a “real success”, with women from the area learning plumbing, painting and decorating skills.

“We are urging anyone wishing to take part to contact the college,” she said.

Throughout the year women will be able to try electrical courses, carpet fitting, carpentry and joinery, and vehicle maintenance.