Workwise training programme to support workplace entry
An innovative programme of activity designed to grow the North East workforce is being supported by Aberdeenshire Council.
Workwise will see Aberdeen City Council, alongside NESCol and Aberdeenshire Council combine efforts to support school leavers and adults to enter the job market through a combination of virtual work experience and illustrative online content.
The project has been made possible by grant funding from Ufi VocTech Trust, an independent charity focused on unlocking the full potential of technology to help adults improve skills for work and open up access for those furthest from opportunity.
The £250,000 grant will see the partners work collaboratively to develop a range of resources for North East residents to help them into work.
This includes virtual work experience modules which could lead to in-person placements, confidence building and skills development, and a series of videos of local people showcasing their jobs.
The programme is being developed with wider partnerships and will grow skills, awareness, and confidence and understanding of the opportunities in the local labour market and strengthen the regional economy.
This includes creating digital programmes with real people from the region speaking about their roles, filmed within their workplaces; online confidence building covering study and digital skills, funding, support networks and progression pathways, and a digital work experience platform, for those lacking in experience or confidence, to use to build key skills and experience matched to their needs.
Aberdeen City Council’s Education and Children’s Services Convener, Councillor Martin Greig, said: “The generous funding offer from Ufi VocTech Trust will provide welcome support for young people and adults with limited work experience to help them develop their knowledge and skills in preparation for the job market.
“This new programme involves partnership collaboration with the aim of increasing individuals’ understanding of the work environment and feeling prepared for it. The approach uses technology and digital innovation to enhance their employment choices and opportunities.”
Caroline O’Donnell, Grants Programme Manager, Ufi VocTech Trust said: “We are proud to support this programme of work led by Aberdeen City Council, which reflects our ambition to support the adoption and deployment of technology to ensure every adult in the UK can gain the skills they need to participate in and benefit from our transitioning economy.
“By combining digital learning with in-person experience, the programme addresses key barriers to employment, particularly in communities furthest from opportunity, helping people build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce.”
The flexibility of the digital approach allows even those living in rural communities for whom travel is a barrier to employability activity to access these upskilling opportunities.
Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee Cllr David Keating said: “This is an exciting programme which has the potential to transform people’s lives by getting them into work with the skills they need.
“With the support of Ufi VocTech Trust, this approach, utilising technology and innovation will open doors for young people and adults alike. The scheme will not just help people understand the world of work, but grow their confidence and ambition.
“I’m especially pleased that we have been able to work together with our neighbouring council for the benefit of all our constituents.”
Robert Laird, Head of Planning and Academic Partnerships at NESCol, said: “We look forward to working with our project partners to develop and deliver this initiative. The course will be a 40-hour interactive programme covering personal development, personal organisation and time management, study skills, digital skills, finance options for students and progression pathways.
“In addition to both local authorities there will be input from SWAP East, Skills Development Scotland, Developing the Young Workforce North East, and both of the city’s universities. It is a very powerful example of the collaborative work being undertaken in the North East as partners come together to broaden the options available for all those who are keen to pursue opportunities in education and employment.”
The Workwise project will support the partners to build the region’s skilled workforce for the future, aligning with the Regional Economic Strategy’s Draft Skills Action Plan and the area’s growth and volume sectors, while simultaneously tackling poverty by supporting local people into quality employment.