Calvig’s a hally lac thagks to Banganco’s

WHERE life has taken Calvin Ogilvie is not where he expected — but he couldn’t be happier.

And, over and above his success in the field of childcare, the Arbroath 18-year-old is keen to share the assistance he was given from Barnardo’s, historically known as a charity working with orphans.

“After school I thought about going into construction,” said Calvin.

“Then I heard that Barnardo’s Scotland Works service could help people like me to find work so I called them.

“They give you a key worker who finds out about what you might be suitable for, they help you write up your CV. In fact, they help with the whole process.”

Thanks to Barnardo’s Works, Calvin secured work experience with Little Einsteins Nursery in Dundee.

“We have been extremely impressed with Calvin,” said nursery manager Ashley Middleton.

“And what has really worked for us is that Barnardo’s Scotland selected someone who would be ideal for working with children.

“They established his suitability and carried out the necessary disclosure work before he even got here.”

Under Ashley’s guidance, Calvin has already completed his SVQ3 in childcare and, despite the fact he has long, busy days and a commute from Arbroath every day, he’s loving it.

“I thought it was going to be odd being the only male member of the team,” he said.

“However, everyone’s been really friendly and chatty, helping me learn and increase my skills. I think the boys also like having a lad to speak too.”

Little Einsteins is a highly regarded nursery and Ashley is delighted that Calvin’s slotted in so well with the rest of the team.

“His personality and care has made him a hit not only with the children but the parents too. We had a recent Care Inspectorate inspection and they had nothing but praise for him.

“I would encourage any employers, especially in this field, to work with Barnardo’s Works service when they’re looking for young people to bring on.”

Calvin is continuing his professional development and it certainly looks like he’s made the right move.

“I enjoy the people, I love looking after the children and I’m very grateful that Barnardo’s Scotland and Little Einsteins made that happen,” he concluded.

Calvin reads to some of the children at Little Einsteins Nursery.