Russell branches out to get ready for work

Like many teenagers Russell Montgomery had no idea what he was going to do after leaving school. Without specific qualifications it was difficult for him to confidently make decisions about what he wanted to do next... until he discovered Careers Scotland.

HIE Skye and Wester Ross Careers Scotland senior adviser Catherine Mackinnon spent time with Russell finding out what he did know about himself. She discovered he wanted to be outdoors, active, motivated by his work and had always been keen on nature and the environment.

Catherine recommended he take part in the Get Ready for Work programme and, as well as helping him develop his skills and confidence for the workplace, and encouraged Russell's strong interest in music by suggesting that he apply for a place at this year's Careers Scotland Rock School.

The Get Ready for Work programme is delivered locally by the Skye and Lochalsh Learning Centre Network (SLLCN) and offers a great opportunity for 16-19 year olds to enter a work placement to gain work experience and learn new skills if they have left school but are not in employment, education or training.

Lesley Hellon is a key worker at SLLCN. "We provide one-to-one support to help trainees find a work placement and ensure they experience a positive introduction to the world of work. In Russell's case we approached the manager at Clan Donald's Armadale Castle Gardens who agreed to offer him a placement.

His supervisor at Armadale Castle Gardens, head gardener Louise Pinkney, is delighted with his progress. "From day one, Russell has shown enthusiasm.

He has fitted in well and is always keen to get stuck right in to the day's tasks." Living in a rural location on the Sleat peninsula, Russell hadn't realised there was such a range of options available to him. "I can't quite believe that I have found something that I really enjoy doing. I feel I have a better chance of getting a job I like, now that I have actual work experience," he said. "I'm looking forward now and feel much more in control of my future."

In addition to the placement, young people might require some support with communication or computer skills or simply want to build self-confidence to help them in applying for jobs. People taking part in the programme can try out work placements and 'tasters' - sampling the actual work environment to help them decide on the job that's best for them.

The Get Ready for Work programme is funded by HIE Skye and Wester Ross. Claire Campbell skills development manager said: "Get Ready for Work supports young people to move into a job, further training or college, by helping them focus on what they really want to do. It gives them the chance to find supported work experience and build up the confidence they need to move on to further training, learning or into work.

"The key to its success is that Get Ready for Work is a whole package of support aimed at building young people's employability skills. Improving competence in literacy and numeracy skills, for example, can increase confidence when applying for a job. By adding these additional services we can ensure that employment opportunities are more sustainable for our young people."