Huthwaite-based national construction group nmcn has created a new book for four to seven-year-old aimed at inspiring the next generation to build a career in the industry.

When I Grow Up, which has been recognised by celebrity architect George Clarke and BBC’s DIY SOS star Billy Byrne, was launched on World Book Day at St Mary Magdalene C of E School, Sutton.

nmcn staff members completed various STEM-focused activities with the youngsters to help bring the story to life.

A narrated animated video of the book has also been created, making the story accessible to all. For children with hearing impairments, nmcn is also creating its first ever video with sign language.

nmcn 19-year-old apprentice estimator Adam Scattergood, who has been profoundly deaf since birth and had a cochlear implant when he was three, will provide the sign language on the video.

The book, produced at nmcn, follows children Harry and Amy, who are considering their future careers as part of a school careers day competition. The story covers a range of engineering activities and demonstrates to children that without the work of those in the construction industry, many other roles would not be possible.

nmcn penned the book to address the skills crisis in the sector and it builds on existing work the firm has done with KS2 children (aged 7-12) as part of their Positive Impact Plan.

The plan has committed to engage with at least 5,000 children by 2025 to inspire young people around the world of work and encourage them to consider the construction industry.

Sam Robinson, headteacher at St Mary Magdalene C of E primary school, said: “This is a really well thought out book. The rhymes and illustrations are an excellent way to engage children in STEM subjects as well as giving a vital message to children about working together to bring about an end result. It’s innovative, entertaining and absorbing.”

The book is available for free in order to spread the message as widely as possible to the next generation.

However, if anybody wants to support nmcn with its fundraising for its corporate charity partner ,Mind, they can make a donation at https://justgiving.com/fundraising/nmcn4mind.