Course helps secondary pupils get career-ready

Thirty one S5 and S6 pupils from six West Lothian secondary schools are benefiting from the two-year Career Ready programme.

The ambitious programme, complements the students’ school studies, preparing them for their next steps.

Activities include 1: 1 mentor ing wrapped around a high quality paid internship, as well as masterclasses from business professionals and visits to a range of employers.

The programme aims to raise aspirations and bridge the gap between education and work by giving real experience of the world of work.

This session 16 employers, including the council, supported the West Lothian programme which helps give students the knowledge, skills and confidence to move into a positive and sustainable post-school destination.

The p r o g ramme includes: being matched with a business mentor, a f o u r- w e e k p a i d Internship in the mentors organisation, workplace visits, and masterclasses.

Executive councillor for education David Dodds said: “I would like to thank all of the organisations and mentors who have supported this programme and the internships. We are fully committed to ensuring our young people are equipped with the knowledge they need to enter further and higher education, training and the employment market. We look forward to continue to work with employers and always welcome future involvement from others.”

This session, six schools took part – Armadale, Whitburn and Broxburn Academies, The James Young High School and Deans and Inveralmond Commu n i t y H i g h Schools. A further two will join the programme in September when another 48 students will begin. To meet the demand we would welcome other organisations on board.”

Mya Greens from Whitburn Academy and Lewis Bowes from Inveralmond Community High School Academy completed their Internships at West Lothian Council. Placements also took place in West Lothian College, manufacturing and technology companies, and the Scottish Government.

Mya said: “My mentor, Yvonne Shaw arranged for me to visit different areas of the council she knew I’d be interested in. This included; Occupational Health, HR and Business Gateway. Yvonne has been amazingly supportive and encouraging. I would recommend the programme to anyone and tell them to grab the opportunity with both hands.”

Businesses interested should contact Mi c h e l l e. Rober tson @westlothian.gov.uk.