Pupils pack out town hall as they look to the future
Apprenticeship opportunities in the spotlight
More than 300 pupils and parents gathered at Paisley Town Hall to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities.
Organised by Paisley’s Skills Development Scotland (SDS) careers centre, in partnership with West College Scotland, the event gave young people the chance to discover the benefits Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships.
And it was also a chance to have a chat with potential employers from all over Renfrewshire.
The event opened with a series of talks from current and former apprentices.
BBC production apprentice Rona Nicolson and sheet metal apprentice Jamie Doran, of BAE, spoke about their experiences and encouraged other local young people to take part.
This was followed by an employer marketplace, where young people, their parents and carers had the chance to find out more.
Representatives from a number of firms, including Scottish Water, NHS, Rolls Royce and Police Scotland were there to talk about potential apprenticeships.
Russell Teeling, of Rolls Royce, said apprentices are a vital part of their business and was delighted to take part in order to encourage more local talent.
He said: “This was a brilliant event with a very impressive attendance.
“We have spoken to a huge number of enthusiastic and motivated young people that we will be contacting regarding our next recruitment.
“We will definitely be supporting this event in the future.”
Organisers judged the event a “huge success”.
SDS team leader Audrey McNeil said: “Despite the miserable weather, we were pleased to welcome a huge number of parents, carers and young people to give them the chance to speak to employers regarding their recruitment processes.
“The young people welcomed the chance to hear from current apprentices about their jobs and how they got into their current career choice.
“The general feedback from both attendees and employers was very positive and exceeded their expectation.
“Our careers team work really hard to support young people in Renfrewshire to reach their full potential, and the success of this event is down to their passion and commitment.”
Apprentice Fraser Gibbons added: “It has been fantastic to share my experience with other young people.
“Not that long ago, I was in the same position not really knowing what I wanted to do — but look at me now. They can do the same.”
People keen find out more about apprenticeships can get help at SDS’s Paisley Careers Centre.
It is now situated in the restored Russell Institute building on the corner of Causeyside Street and New Street.
It is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and anyone can drop in at any time to speak with a qualified careers adviser about their future.
Alternatively, call 0141 849 0942.
Find out more about apprenticeships at www.apprenticehips.scot