PUPILS LAYING A FOUNDATION FOR CAREERS

Teenager Lucy Gallagher, left, got her foot in the door at a world-leading technology firm thanks to her Foundation Apprenticeship.

Now, more doors are opening for the 17-year-old pupil at St Ambrose High School in Coatbridge.

Lucy chose a Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship in fifth year alongside her other subjects so she could get relevant experience towards her dream job in procurement.

Now in her second year of her Foundation Apprenticeship, Lucy’s getting work experience at worldleading technology firm, Dell UK.

She said:“Going to university wasn’t for me. I wanted to go straight into work.”

Lucy, from Baillieston, heard about Foundation Apprenticeships at a careers presentation during school assembly. She explained:“The teacher talked about a range of career options and Foundation Apprenticeships really stood out.”

Lucy went on to the apprenticeships.scot website to find out more and see what Foundation Apprenticeships were available near her.

After registering online for Business Skills, she went to Glasgow Kelvin College who accepted her on interview.

Doing the apprenticeship alongside her Highers was straightforward.

Lucy said:“My school was able to manage my timetable for fifth and sixth year so I could fit in all the subjects I wanted to do.

“College work is managed step-bystep to make sure it’s not too difficult and in the second year there’s a focus on the work placement.”

Dell UK has offered her a job through a Modern Apprenticeship with the prospect of staying on to gain a degree with a Graduate Apprenticeship.

At Dell UK, Lucy has been working on a variety of projects designed to increase her knowledge of the business.

“I get treated like any other member of staff and trusted with my own projects.”

Varry McMenemy from Dell said:“We are thrilled to have Lucy and four other Foundation Apprentices within our team. It’s a privilege to be able to support them on their learning journey and to have them contribute to our business at such an early point in their careers.”

Lucy added:“Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship has built my confidence and given me a secure future.”