Children’s charity Barnardo’s Scotland has forged a new partnership to support Angus young people though their modern apprenticeships and into employment.
During this Scottish apprenticeship week, the charity’s employment training service, Barnardo’s Works North East and Tayside, is celebrating the benefits modern apprenticeships bring to businesses and the local economy.
In Angus, the charity’s efforts have already led to Friockheim teenager Jamie Reading, 17, gaining a post as an apprentice waste water treatment operative based at Hatton, between Carnoustie and Arbroath, with Veolia UK.
Jamie left Arbroath Academy in 2015 with National 4 and 5 qualifications, and undertook an introduction to engineering course at Dundee and Angus College while still at school.
Barnardo’s Works Lesley Bollan, Jamie’s support worker, said: “Living in rural Angus, coupled with his lack of experience, was proving to be difficult for Jamie when applying for opportunities, but it was clear from his first meeting with Barnardo’s Works that he was motivated and ready to work.”
The teenager’s breakthrough came as the charity was working towards completing a certificate of work readiness placement with their new partner, Veolia UK.
Lesley added: “The certificate is aimed at young people with a ‘can do’ attitude to work, which is something Jamie had in spades. It includes a minimum of 190 hours’ work experience and the chance to develop skills with a training provider such as Barnardo’s Works.”
Jamie was also supported by Barnardo’s Works to undertake a SCQF Level 4 Certificate of Work Readiness Award.
He said: “I’m extremely pleased to have been the chosen candidate for this apprenticeship and looking forward to progressing, completing my SVQ and furthering my career within Veolia.”
Barnardo’s Works has continued to support Jamie through his apprenticeship and have also been able to secure funding to help him pay for driving lessons.
Lesley added: “This is the sort of support that makes a huge difference to a young person living in a rural area, having transport can potentially open up new employment opportunities.”
The charity is looking to hear from both young people and businesses willing to host work placements, site visits or employer talks.
