Over 3,000 North East pupils are set to gain an understanding of future learning and career pathways when they attend Lift Off & Grow 2022 from 1-2 June.
The online event, organised by Aberdeen City Council in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East, will be streamed to senior pupils across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
The event aims to inform and inspire young people about the variety of career and study opportunities in the region as it rises to the challenge of climate change.
The event is being delivered by a sophisticated digital platform, allowing companies to participate in a way that suits them best – from taking part in live panels to presenting virtually. Pupils will have the opportunity to hear and interact directly with employers.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the senior pupils to get an insight into the options ahead of them as they prepare to leave school.
“This can be an overwhelming time as they navigate their next steps, with events like this we aim to prepare them for not only this transition but also the future, where climate change will be the focus for years to come.”
Councillor Martin Greig, convener of the education committee, said: “It is becoming increasingly important to help young people on their individual journeys after leaving school.
“Lift off & Grow is a welcome initiative that will offer practical guidance and direction for moving on to next steps. More of these activities should be organised to assist when making these life changing choices.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the education committee, said: “We are delighted to be working with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East to deliver this event to pupils across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
“It is a chance for them to discover the evolving opportunities that exist within organisations as we move towards a more sustainable future.”
Lift Off & Grow 2022 will be opened by keynote speaker Megan McCubbin. A zoologist, wildlife TV presenter and conservationist, Megan is best-known for her appearances on BBC’s Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Winterwatch programmes.
The event also sees the launch of the Climate Solutions Accelerator programme. The SCQF accredited online training programme gives pupils an understanding of climate change science and policies, giving them insight into how the issue will change society and the opportunities in tackling it.
Funded by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) through the North East Economic Recovery & Skills Fund – which is managed by the Council – the course was developed by the Royal Scottish Geographical Society in partnership with the Universities of Edinburgh and Stirling, The Institute of Directors and Jump Digital.
Jenny MacDonald, Skills Planning Manager (Energy Transition) for SDS said: “Inspiring young people to understand and engage with the transition to net zero is a key part of Scotland’s Climate Emergency Skills Action Plan, and this programme is part of work across the country to embed those skills through climate education.
“This programme allows young people to build a solid foundation to understand the challenges brought by the climate emergency and the opportunities in skills and work it will bring for their generation.”
Further information about Lift Off & Grow 2022 has been shared directly with schools and pupils.