Renfrewshire pupils took part in paid internships this summer through the ‘Career Ready’ programme.
This year, 27 high school pupils completed four-week placements, with 12 working for Renfrewshire Council and 15 placed with local businesses such as Altrad, ASDA, City Gate Construction ltd, Filshill Limited, KLAS Care, Lochile Construction Group, Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre, and Thermo Fisher Scientific.
The two-year scheme includes mentoring, masterclasses, and a paid internship, giving pupils work-based learning before they leave school.
Feedback from pupils has been positive, with many saying the experience improved their confidence and helped them consider new career options.
Councillor Emma Rodden, Convener for Education at Renfrewshire Council, said: “Giving young people the chance to explore different career paths and gain real experience in the workplace is so important.
“We’re proud to work with local businesses and mentors who are shaping the future workforce in Renfrewshire.”
Janie O’Neil, director of children’s services at Renfrewshire Council, said: “It was a pleasure to meet the young people who are participating in our innovative Career Ready programme.
“I am delighted at the opportunities which they have had here in Renfrewshire Council, and I think it is admirable that they have committed 4 weeks of their own summer holidays to work with us.
“Well done to them and to all the staff involved in making this programme a success, and we look forward to it going from strength to strength in the coming years.”