Marvin Onumonu23 pupils from Wallace High in Stirling and Lornshill Academy in Clackmannanshire finished the ‘Ideal Candidate’ employability programme, run by Robertson Group.
The scheme was delivered in partnership with the Scottish Government’s developing the young workforce and supported by the Stirling and Clackmannanshire city region deal.
The eight-week course covered curriculum vitae (CV) writing, social media awareness and interview preparation.
Pupils gained Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 3 and 4 certificates in employability skills.
Clackmannanshire council leader Ellen Forson said: “It was great to meet the young people from Lornshill Academy and congratulate them on completing the Ideal Candidate programme.
“Clackmannanshire Council is determined to make the most of the City Region Deal to back our young people – giving them the skills, support and confidence to thrive at school and beyond.
“Programmes like this are a brilliant way to help young people realise their potential and take their next steps.”
Jen Preston, depute leader at Stirling Council, said: “Major investments such as the City Region Deal are creating a wide range of exciting opportunities for our young people in high-growth and emerging sectors as well as other industries.
“The practical skills and knowledge that pupils have secured during this programme will give them a head-start as they make the next steps in their future careers.
“I was delighted to present the certificates to all the participants, hear their positive feedback and pass on my congratulations.”
Professor Paul A. Townsend, deputy principal (research and innovation) at the University of Stirling, said: “The University of Stirling is committed to supporting young people to fulfil their potential, and to invest in them the skills and attributes that will enable them to succeed.
“That’s a mission we hold for everyone, not just our students. We use our role as an anchor here in the Forth Valley to help support prosperity and to create opportunities for all people, so that together we can live better, safer, healthier lives.
“So, it was an honour to present local pupils with their Ideal Candidate certificates – I’ve no doubt the skills they have gained through this programme will help them in the next step on their journey, whatever they choose to do.”
David Cairns, regional managing director at Robertson Construction Central East, said: “It’s inspiring to see young people so engaged in developing skills that will help them thrive in the world of work.
“The Ideal Candidate programme supports them to build confidence, recognise their strengths and develop practical tools they can take forward into any future workplace.
“Supporting the next generation in this way is a vital part of how we deliver social value alongside our construction work.”
