An evaluation of 'work experience' both locally and nationally was conducted in 2008. The outcome of both highlighted the need for a more flexible approach and for pupils to gain transferable skills in communication, team working, problem solving and leadership rather than meet specific job requirements.
Support from local employers is paramount to the successful placement of our young people. As there are ever changing needs of the workforce, the programme will look to equip the pupils to fit more readily with the needs of the employer. The Employer will therefore play an important part in helping us to focus on the requirements of the workplace.
West Dunbartonshire Council's new model will improve pupils' understanding of the skills required for the world of work and enhance their chances of a positive destination.
The new programme is more flexible, articulates well with Curriculum for Excellence and provides a more personalised experience better suited to individual needs. Employability placements involve a commitment of one day a week for six weeks.
Pupils have the chance to discuss their interests and strengths on a one-to‑one basis and most secure their first choice of placement. Feedback to date has been very positive from both pupils and employers.
The majority of 2010 S4 summer leavers have already had a placement and S5 winter leavers begin theirs in August 2010. In 2011, S5 leavers will participate with S6 pupils being given a range of options from 2012.
The programme is managed jointly by West Dunbartonshire Council's Educational Services Department and the Skillseekers Unit which is part of the Council's Housing, Environmental and Economic Development Department. The Employability Team comprises David Fulton, Beverly Paterson, Maxine Robb and Allan Shields.
S4 pupils and employers have already benefited from the new Employability Skills Programme in West Dunbartonshire. This is what they had to say:
Robyn Noon, Vale of Leven Academy: MacKenzie Stewart Hairdresser
"This was my choice of placement. I knew the salon and felt happy to be here. I have been shown how to shampoo, blow‑dry, do head massage, style and loads more. Everybody is really nice and very helpful. I would like to carry on with hairdressing as my career."
Ken Stewart, Manager
"Robyn is a lovely girl who works conscientiously and focuses carefully on what she is learning. As part of the programme we teach young people the art of Japanese head massage. If it is done correctly the client should fall asleep. We are keen that all staff use the same technique."
Anton Ross, Our Lady and St Patrick's High School: Arnold Clark, Dumbarton
"I have enjoyed all the different departments that I have been in and being in the workshop learning about the cars. I get on really well with the staff and feel just like one of them. I am doing a College class half a day a week over two years and am completing a part of my City & Guilds for motor vehicle engineering, it has really helped me with my placement here. I have had an interview at college for a full time motor vehicle engineering course next year. I am also going to apply to the Glasgow Training Group for an apprenticeship. I know that this is what I want to do with my future."
Gordon Brown, Sales Manager
"Anton has been great, his timekeeping has been good and he has mixed well with staff. He has had an opportunity to work in a variety of departments, allowing him to gain an overall picture of the kinds of jobs that are possible."
Daniel Joyce, Our Lady and St Patrick's High School: Dumbarton Golf Club
"I am learning how to do things the right way. You get respect and treated like an adult. As a member of the club, it makes me more aware of caring for the course while I am playing. I know now this is what I want to do and I hope to be able to get an apprenticeship."
lan Elliot, Head Green Keeper
"Daniel has been on time and has shown a good attitude to the work. He completes all tasks to a good standard and works well as part of a team. There may be an opportunity for an apprenticeship and Daniel is aware that if he wishes to apply, a good school report and a positive placement evaluation will stand him in good stead."
Andrew McPhail, Vale of Leven Academy: The Rainbow Room, Glasgow
"It has confirmed what I already knew, I want to try and get an apprenticeship when I leave school this year. I love it here. There is always something to do. To begin with I felt like I was on work experience, now I feel part of the team. My confidence with the clients has grown and I now feel comfortable talking to them."
Will Fleeson, Salon/Company Director
"Andrew has settled in really well and is working with the team to look after the clients. He is keen to learn and has shown an ability to use the skills he has been shown. We are looking to support the next generation of young assistants and offer opportunities to young' people who show a keen interest and a willingness to learn. We try to teach a new aspect of the job each day."
