Career opportunities to be given “lift off” in schools

23 September 2021

School pupils in Aberdeen are to be encouraged to consider new employment pathways, supported by stakeholders, as part of Covid-19 recovery plans.

As part of the approach, the city council’s Education Operational delivery Committee agreed that a £1.6 million grant be used to support those at risk of disengaging from education in late primary school.

Twenty youth workers are currently being recruited to support the initiative, which includes promoting general wellbeing.

The Educational Delivery Committee also endorsed “Lift Off!”, an online annual event that promoted career pathways for new S5 and S6 pupils and offered support with CVs.

Education Operational Delivery Committee convener, Councillor M. Taqueer Malik, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the local economy with the loss of employment opportunities, including those for school leavers.

“Our teachers, officers, businesses and community stakeholders have been working together to identify new opportunities for school leavers and career routes they might successfully follow.

“Our youngsters possess skills and abilities that can be applied in a huge variety of fields, and if we can help them realise their talent, everyone benefits.”

Last week a one-stop-shop website, known as ABZ Works, was launched.

The Council has worked in partnership with North-East Scotland College, Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Bon Accord Care, The Developing the Young Workforce Board, universities and other training providers to show pathways into Early Learning and Childcare, Life Sciences, Tourism, Hospitality, Energy, Construction and Digital through apprenticeships, college and university courses and other work-based qualifications.

As part of this approach, schools have introduced an Employability Pathway in S4 and the first Foundation Apprenticeship partnership in Early Education & Childcare with Aberlour.