Work experience plea
Businesses in Perth and Kinross are being encouraged to offer young people work experience.
A number of small businesses in the region have signed up to the Developing Young Workforce Perth and Kinross programme, which aims to bridge the gap between education and the workplace through work experience placements.
The programme has now launched its #LearnALiving campaign to encourage more local employers to offer school children work experience.
Last year, the organisers of the campaign had interest from over 250 employers in the area.
Michelle Maddox from Clootie McToot, a traditional Scottish dumpling maker in Abernethy, is one of those who has signed up.
She said:“I did work experience as a youngster, which really helped develop my own confidence and communication skills, something I don’t think can be taught in a classroom.
“It’s great to see the transformation in a young person once they have gained Michell Maddox from Clootie McToot some valuable experience.”
She added:“Having young people in gives me great insight into how we should be communicating to that audience, particularly when it comes to social media and digital marketing.
“There is a true transfer of skills between the business and young person.”
Michelle will be offering work experience placements alongside other businesses such as Aviva, Stagecoach Group, Castle Water and Crieff Hydro.
Steven Stewart, chair of Perth and Kinross Developing Young Workforce’s regional board, said:“It’s encouraging to see businesses like Clootie McToot value work experience placements in their business.
“Not only are placements hugely beneficial to young people but by offering work experience, businesses are helping to shape our future workforce, local communities and economy.
“Those who have welcomed placements have found it a great way to attract new talent to their organisations.”