Renfrewshire’s young people thriving after leaving school

Providing Renfrewshire’s young people with the right support is key to ensuring everyone can fulfil their potential, affirmed Education Convener, Councillor Emma Rodden.

Renfrewshire is ranked second out of all 32 local authorities for school leavers entering positive destinations with almost 98% of young people going to college or university, apprenticeships and training, or starting work.

Off the back of national news that 1 in 6 young people will face difficulties getting into positive destinations in five years’ time, Councillor Rodden sets out Renfrewshire’s position.

She said: “We know things are extremely challenging for our young people at the moment. With their schooling impacted by the Covid pandemic and cost of living pressures, we know not every young person will have access to the same opportunities. Some will also have caring responsibilities or be care experienced themselves, so we’re working hard to ensure the right support is available so that all our young people have opportunities to thrive and fulfil their potential.

“We work extensively to provide our young people with the skills and opportunities they want and need. This is done through working with our schools, employment support providers, local businesses and national agencies.

“Renfrewshire school staff provide daily support to young people, working hard to ensure they go onto a positive destination. I’m proud that some of our schools have 100 per cent of their young people going into positive destinations. A huge part of that work is supported by employment services on top of what our school career advisers do.

“Skills Development Scotland go into schools to provide information on careers and opportunities. Our Invest in Renfrewshire team provide bespoke support for young people seeking employment and training.”

The Council’s Develop the Young Workforce (DYW) programme has been running for 10 years and has widened opportunities available for young people through a variety of pathways, including enterprise, construction, and creative jobs.

The Career Ready programme offers young people paid summer internships. Students get to build their confidence and experience of the workplace, supported by mentors. Both the Council and local employers are involved. Since it began in 2023, 41students have taken part and a further 23 will begin their summer internships shortly.

Johnstone High School has won Young Enterprise Scotland regional heats for the last four years. Pupils learn how to work on their enterprise ideas and how to pitch them to potential investors.

The Renfrewshire Future Pathways Programme gives young people across the area an opportunity to learn about creative and cultural jobs. It takes place annually in partnership with University of the West of Scotland, West College Scotland, and OneRen. More than 250 third year pupils benefit each year.

Cllr Rodden added: “We work with Morrisons Construction, McTaggarts, McKenzie and BAM Construction to provide construction opportunities. This supports young people to go on site visits, gain CSCS training, take up placements, and learn about the construction industry. The Learning Estate Programme across Renfrewshire also provides opportunities for our young people to access work-based learning experience while contributing the future of our school estate.

“We also offer events experience through our volunteer programme. Our Youth Services team also offer confidence building programmes, such as Duke of Edinburgh.”

Surveys with Renfrewshire residents carried out last year identified that supporting people with the cost of living and supporting those in need was a top priority.

The Council’s £1.3million Fairer Renfrewshire programme helps support families to reduce costs associated with education. The Cost of the School Day fund, breakfast clubs, and £50 Winter Clothing payments provide financial relief. Summer of Fun programme enables families to take part in free fun activities during the school holidays.

Two advice initiatives Schools Support Service and Family Advice provide help and support to families. These are provided by Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau and the Council’s Advice Works.

Information and advice on jobs, careers and volunteering is available on Renfrewshire Council’s website.

People can also get help with money and benefits.