Business Enterprise Bulletin - Issue 5 - East Ayrshire · 2017-02-13 · Stepping into the world of work..... 23 Youngsters HAVE designs ON building careers Two lucky ... They presented

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BUSINESSENTERPRISEBULLETIN

School enterprise- a recipe for success

2 issue five BUSINESSENTERPRISEBULLETIN

Welcome to the fifth issue of the Business Enterprise bulletin, which highlights recent enterprising events and successes across the authority,

including: Grange Academy’s Gaelic film awards; Hansel employability programme; Scottish Education Awards; Interaction Challenge final; Ayrshire Young Chef competition and the Sir Tom Hunter Challenge.

The Business Enterprise and Skills Centres (BESC) initiative, which aligns with the Scottish Qualifications Authority’s Skills Framework, continues its strong focus on helping young people to develop the skills and experiences which will equip them for future transitions to employment and training, both locally and nationally.

Integral to the BESC initiative is the valued ongoing support from our Business Leaders. We are delighted that these important partnerships were recognised by being shortlisted for the final of the Association for Public Service Excellence Awards (APSE) 2013.

ContentsYoungsters have designs on building careers ................................. 2Ideas festival inspires all comers .................................................... 3Blazing success for young firefighters ............................................ 4Art competition kickstarts games programme .............................. 5Kind kids back Ayrshire Hospice ................................................... 5Design challenge a big draw for celebrities .................................... 6Young-stars success in film awards ................................................ 7Studio visit neigh bother for young artists ...................................... 8Teens sweep the board in F1 challenge ........................................ 9On the trail of history ................................................................. 10Whizz kid’s robot in London science fair ..................................... 11Pupils get down to business ........................................................ 12Saltire awards for young helpers ................................................. 12Youth films inspiring change ........................................................ 13Talented twosome hit the high notes .......................................... 13That all important life-saving pint ................................................ 14Top of the class .......................................................................... 14Right on the money .................................................................. 15Enterprising youngsters build bright future .................................. 15Loudoun two-in-a-row in chef challenge .................................... 16Cook challengers’ sweet taste of success .................................... 17Students compete for robotic domination .................................. 17Enter the dragons - Sir Tom Hunter challenge ............................ 19Around the schools… ................................................................ 20Stepping into the world of work ................................................. 23

Youngsters HAVE

designsON building careersTwo lucky students keen to build a future in architecture landed the work experience opportunity of their dreams with a top international design firm, through a chance meeting.

Sixth year pupils Melissa McPartland and Duncan Wyllie met David Ross, director of Keppie Design, when he launched the Interaction programme at Auchinleck Academy.The project challenged young people across East Ayrshire to design and build flexible, movable structures from which to sell products made by pupils.On learning the talented two had applied to study architecture at Glasgow School of Art (GSA), David offered them work placements with his internationally successful Glasgow-based firm. David said: “Duncan and Melissa really stood out as being so enthusiastic about art and architecture. I thought the hands-on experience in a professional working environment would stand them in good stead when their applications were being considered by GSA”.

On their work placement at Keppie Design, Duncan and Melissa were each given a brief to design a studio for a contemporary artist whose practice made use of natural light. They conducted research into the art world and created a series of development drawings, models and photographsFinal presentations included plans, models and perspective drawings, rendered to show the atmosphere of the spaces. They presented their work to Alan Hooper, Head of Undergraduate Studies at the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow and to a group from Keppie Design.David Ross said: “Both Melissa and Duncan were an absolute credit to Auchinleck Academy.

“We asked them to design a studio for an artist. The artist was to be a real person and someone whose work they admired.

“They were enthusiastic and personable and approached the task we set them with a very high level of initiative and dedication. I think they enjoyed their time at Keppie Design as much as we enjoyed having them”.

BUSINESSENTERPRISEBULLETIN issue five 3

Ideas festival inspires all comersBilled as ‘a day of exciting, challenging, stimulating, provocative talks to change the way you see the world’, it drew listeners to hear a wide range of speakers, with something for everyone.The event was planned by IDLaunch - 20 enterprising S4 pupils - who wanted to organise a lively ideas-sharing day with a difference.Subjects up for discussion included how our young people can save us from ourselves - and how to waste an education. Enspire’s themes - reinvent, inspire and transform - were derived from the school’s vision statement. The idea of reinvention, together with the ongoing regeneration of Kilmarnock, was harnessed by pupils, who were keen to show that anything big cities can do, Kilmarnock could do as well. The youngsters sent out over 150 invitations to potential speakers – resulting in a line-up of more than 30 creative and stimulating performers.

Those speaking on the day included internationally recognised Scots, such as National Theatre of Scotland director Simon Sharkey; MP Cathy Jamieson and education expert the ‘real’ David Cameron.Local contributors included Graham Short, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services; Professor Danny Gorman and business leaders David Ross of Keppie Design and Craig Stevenson of Braehead Foods. The talks featured topics such as confidence, the power of the arts, the Romans, how to source finance for new businesses, storytelling, transforming communities, how to waste an education and how our young people can save us from ourselves. As well as the wide range of speakers, there were musical performances by young people from a number of schools in East Ayrshire.

S4 pupil Rebecca Bunten from IDLaunch said: “The idea was that local people could come along and be inspired by those who are at the top of their game”.

Classmate Sarah Walker added: “We wanted to not only change the way things are done, but also to challenge the way adults think about young people”.

St Joseph’s Academy Acting Headteacher Ben Davis said: “In organising this festival of ideas, the pupils embodied exactly the enterprising, resilient and tenacious spirit that they wanted to showcase.

“They were driven by a powerful mission: to show that the young people of Kilmarnock could be the engine of local transformation and regeneration. I am very proud of what they achieved by bringing the best thinkers and doers to Kilmarnock.”

Enspire was part of the school’s enterprise strategy, supported by East Ayrshire

Council’s Business Enterprise and Skills Centre initiative.

Business leader David Ross, Keppie Design

Alan Hooper, Mackintosh School of Architecture,

Glasgow School of Art The ‘real’ David Cameron Cathy Jamieson MP

Kilmarnock’s first ever Festival of Ideas at St Joseph’s Academy proved a big hit with many, despite competing against sunny weather outdoors.


Blazing success FOR YOUNG FIREFIGHTERSYoungsters battled unseasonal sleet, snow and biting winds in April to put on an outdoor display of their newly acquired fire and rescue skills at Kilmarnock Fire Station.

An audience of parents, teachers and invited guests also braved the freezing temperatures to watch! The nine pupils of Grange Academy and Park School re-enacted a road traffic accident rescue, complete with car wreck and ‘casualty’ – and then directed hoses at a ‘burning building’ and performed a fire rescue exercise.Their skills had been gained on a week-long course with firefighters at Kilmarnock Fire Station. The boys focused on teamwork, communication skills and leadership, as well as practical, hands-on training in first aid, search and rescue and road traffic incident rescue.They undertook activities such as working in confined spaces, opening fire hydrants, using cutting gear and working with heavy equipment – all while wearing full firefighting kit. The course was run by a partnership of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and East Ayrshire Council’s Education Department and Community Learning and Development (CLD) team, with support from the Police.On completion, the boys received National Youth Achievement Awards.

Grange pupil Harry Martin said: “I’ve enjoyed absolutely everything about Fire Reach, especially the opportunity to learn new skills”.

Area Commander Paul Tanzilli said: “At the beginning of the week, we had nine boys who did not speak much when they found themselves in new surroundings – but within days, they were working together as a team.

“Fire Reach is an excellent programme and we are delighted to receive support from East Ayrshire Council. We would like to see it continue and develop in the future.”

Councillor Iain Linton, then Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This is the first year we have offered participants the opportunity to undertake a National Youth Achievement Award.

“The award recognises not only the work they have done on the Fire Reach course, but also wider activities in which the young people are involved. They will complete a bronze level award recognising at least 60 hours of activity”.

There were three Fire Reach courses this year, with participants from Auchinleck Academy and Stewarton Academy at separate events, as well as Grange Academy and Park School.Schools identified young people they felt would benefit from attending.


Art competition KICKSTARTS Games programme

X-Men and Superman illustrator Frank Quitely urged East Ayrshire schools to get creative and make their mark on the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

He said: “I know how satisfying it is to see your work being appreciated and this is a fantastic opportunity for 6,500 school kids to see their creative work on the world stage”.

Local pupils were encouraged to showcase their artistic talents by creating games-inspired artwork for the Athletes’ Village at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. This unique opportunity was announced at the launch of Game On Scotland, the official education programme for the Games.Using the Games and the 17 sports as creative inspiration, primary and secondary pupils are challenged to come up with 6,500 pieces of artwork to decorate bedrooms in the Athletes’ Village where competitors will stay. Winning designs will be gifted to the visitors as mementos of their time in Scotland and athletes will be encouraged to send notes expressing their personal thanks to the young artists. Game On Scotland - a partnership of Education Scotland, the Scottish Government, Glasgow 2014 and Glasgow City Council – are using the Commonwealth Games as an inspiring and fun context for learning across the curriculum.With the website now live, teachers across Scotland and the Commonwealth can access a range of educational resources including film and image banks, Games history and sport profiles. Artist Frank Quitely said: “I’ve seen first-hand some of the artistic talent emerging in Scotland and I’m sure the pupils’ artwork will help inspire athletes to go for gold in 2014.”

Shona Robison, Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport said: “The Game On Scotland education programme will transport children across Scotland to the heart of the Commonwealth Games, taking them on a global learning journey which will benefit them now and in the future.

“Young people are at the heart of the Games and its legacy and we’re creating opportunities for children to experience the excitement. We know that major events such as the Commonwealth Games have the power to transform the lives of young people.”

Schools can apply only by registering at www.gameonscotland.org. Winning entries will be announced in early 2014.

Kind kids back Ayrshire HospiceEnterprising senior pupils at Grange Academy were delighted to hand over a substantial cheque to the Ayrshire Hospice – and it had special significance for team leader Rachel Collins (S6).

Guidance teacher Lorraine Egerton said: “The charity is very close to Rachel’s heart, as her father was supported by the hospice in his final months.

“Rachel approached me at the start of the academic year, as she wanted to make sure that the charity was recognised in a high profile way in the school”.

The hardworking group made a grand total of £349.54 by providing teas and coffees at parents’ evenings in the school. They also organised a fun dress-down day for pupils during the session. Other young people who helped raise funds included Andrew Wilson, Laurel Brown, Rachel Armstrong, Rachel Collins and Rebekah Winter.Councillor Iain Linton, then Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Congratulations to the young people for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the session.

“Grange Academy can be justifiably proud of the group’s achievement in raising money in such a useful way, for such a worthwhile charity”.

L to R – DHT Elaine Crawford, teacher Lorraine Egerton,

HT Fred Wildridge, Rhona Brown (Ayrshire Hospice),

pupils Andrew Wilson, Laurel Brown, Rebekah Winter, Rachel Collins.


Design challenge a big draw for celebritiesEnterprising kids emerged triumphant from a ‘Dragons’ Den’ challenge in East Ayrshire Council Chambers – having impressed top judges with their creative designs.

BBC Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark and famous Scots sculptor Andy Scott were among luminaries who came to Kilmarnock to assess the talents of local pupils – and award prizes. Media consultant and ex-BBC correspondent John Morrison chaired the event.Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “I am continually impressed by the creativity and skills of so many young people in our schools – and this Interaction Challenge highlights that.

“Kilmarnock has also won the Creative Place award, which is further evidence of the level of imagination and talent blooming in East Ayrshire”.

So impressed was former Kilmarnock girl Kirsty that she awarded the prize for best presentation to Loudoun Academy’s team of Angus Kerr, Dylan Speir, Ewan Cochrane, James Clements and Sam McVey (all S3) for their presentation about the structure they had designed to sell products made in school. Kirsty said: “I was very impressed with their terrific focus on customers and their good clear film about the process. There are several young people here who could have a future in television”.

Prize for best model was awarded by Andy Scott to James Hamilton Academy’s team - Rebecca Mackie, Aimee McCabe, Hayley

McMillan, Danielle Murray, Sophie Smith, Natalie Waddell - for a ‘really funky design’. Fellow judge Alan Hooper, of the Mackintosh School of Architecture, Glasgow School of Art (GSA), also commended their forward-looking use of cardboard, which he said was being pioneered by Japanese architects designing earthquake-proof buildings.Michael Breen, depute principal of Kilmarnock College, awarded prizes for partnership

working to St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock and Doon Academy, Dalmellington.St Joseph’s had worked on a ‘Cook School to go’ for Braehead Foods/Cook School Scotland and had taken many of their partners’ ideas into account.Doon Academy was commended for an idea which had ‘great potential’. Their design was for tepees to create a camping area for visitors around Loch Doon and the new Dark Sky Observatory, to promote tourism.Prizes for the designs in development were experiences, rather than awards. The Loudoun team won a visit to BBC HQ in Glasgow, while James Hamilton pupils won a day at Andy Scott’s warehouse studio in Glasgow, where the sculptor develops huge public art installations.St Joseph’s and Doon pupils gained the opportunity to have interior design input into ‘the hive’ – a social area for students at the new £50 million Ayrshire College campus.Alan Hooper invited all teams to GSA for a tour of the famous Mackintosh building and a presentation of the design for the new building designed by world famous architect Steven Holl. The Interaction project – brainchild of David Ross, Design Director of Keppie Design - called for students in the nine academies to create and build structures to use to sell enterprise products.

Front l to r, Kirsty Wark, John Hooper, Andy Scott; back, standing, Michael Breen, John Morrison, David Ross

All winners with judges and Cllr Douglas Reid, front right


David Ross said: ‘The initiative was born out of a determination to enrich the creative educational experiences of young people in East Ayrshire and to promote connections and partnerships with local business and the wider learning spectrum. “We co-ordinated a first-rate judging panel of people who share this vision, including leading broadcaster and former pupil of Kilmarnock Grammar School, Kirsty Wark and Andy Scott, whose iconic sculptures can be seen from Cumbernauld to Chicago.

“They brought a diverse range of expertise to ensuring the pupils’ hard work was given serious consideration.”

Councillor Douglas Reid said: “A key strategic priority for the Council is to raise educational attainment and equip our young people for the world of work. With the strong backing of mentors and business leaders local and national, we are well on the road to achieving this aim”.

Young-stars success

in FILM AWARDSPupils at a Kilmarnock school celebrated success in a national film competition with a difference – it was in Gaelic!

And stars of the big screen turned out in Glasgow to present awards at the fifth National Gaelic Film Awards ceremony.S5 pupil Javen Houston, who receives Gaelic medium education at Grange Academy, was awarded with a special commendation for acting.

Grange was also shortlisted for an award in the category of Best Theme, but in the end, the award went to Tobermory High School. The annual FilmG competition was celebrated in Glasgow at the prestigious Gaelic screen awards, run by MG Alba, the media service for the language.Guest presenters included well-known Scottish actors Jayd Johnson (former River City star and BAFTA winner 2012 for Field of Blood) and Laura McMonagle, who starred in Ae Fond Kiss and The Wee Man this year.Also presenting awards were actor Tony Kearney; Sally Howitt of River City; Shane O’ Meara and Kirstie Steele of Waterloo Road; and director Michael Hines. This year’s theme for films was Acras/Miann (Hunger/Desire). Judges were particularly impressed with the quality of films in the 12-17 category, with 42 entries being received from schools across Scotland.Pupils had to write their own scripts and work with a camera crew from an independent TV company to shoot the film.

Grange’s young film-makers chose to explore the theme of a character’s desire to win becoming all-consuming and leading to her downfall. Grange’s film, Oir Dubhach, (Black Gold), told the story of a young athlete (played by Adele Anderson) who aspired to win gold in the Commonwealth Games. On the advice of her coach (Javen Houston) she chose to take performance-enhancing drugs. She won gold, but her offence was uncovered and her medal taken away.

Gaelic teacher Mary Ellen Stewart said “Adele and Javen both thoroughly enjoyed the awards ceremony at The Arches. They met with Dr Alasdair Allan MSP, Minister for Scotland’s Languages, their fellow competitors, media representatives and stars from film and TV.”

Councillor Iain Linton, then Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “The young people learned about script-writing and acquired technical skills, such as how to operate cameras, sound equipment and editing software.

“It is important for pupils in Gaelic medium education to get the chance to speak Gaelic outside the classroom, as it is only then that their language will develop”. Donald Campbell, chief executive of MG Alba, said: “This year’s FilmG was very exciting, with a number of budding film-makers and schools taking part for the first time.

“The quality of films impressed our judging panel and we were encouraged by the enthusiasm for FilmG and the level of talent that it uncovered.”

James Hamilton Academy - best model

Loudoun Academy - best presentation

St Joseph’s Academy winners with judges

Doon Academy - ‘great potential’


Studio visit neigh bother for young artistsEnterprising students reaped a reward for their hard work by winning a visit to world famous sculptor Andy Scott’s Glasgow studio –featuring one of the artist’s trademark giant horses.

The six senior pupils from James Hamilton Academy, Kilmarnock, were awarded the trip as their prize for best architectural model in the Interaction design challenge.Andy is a figurative sculptor, working in galvanised steel, fibreglass and cast bronze, specialising in public art in locations in the UK, USA and Australia. His Heavy Horse sculpture of a Clydesdale has become one of the best known artworks in Scotland. Sited beside the M8 motorway between Glasgow and Edinburgh, it stands 4.5 metres tall and is made of galvanised steel bars.The artist welcomed the young people to his huge warehouse studio in Maryhill and answered their questions. The pupils - amazed at the large scale works in process - gained a real insight into art practice. Aimee McCabe said: “I was speechless when I saw Andy Scott’s sculptures! I loved looking at them up close and I can appreciate his work more now that I’ve seen how much effort went into it. I felt very inspired and loved to hear about his techniques”.

Sarah Thomson said: “The passion in Andy’s work is clear and it has made me feel inspired to follow through with something that I enjoy”.

Andy said: “It was a great opportunity for the young people to visit at this time, as I was meeting a deadline to deliver a five metre high steel horse, mounted on a 10 metre column and a six metre high steel female figure, both for the city of Leeds. It showed the pupils the type and scale of work I do and the effort it takes to make it.

“Hopefully it will inspire them to believe in themselves, work hard and make successful careers in the creative sector.”


Teens sweep the board in

F1 CHALLENGEIt’s not often racing cars feature on the curriculum – but for teenagers at one secondary school, they’re a weekly highlight!

And in this year’s F1 in Schools regional final, Kilmarnock Academy youngsters scooped a sensational four trophies to become the Scottish champions for creating and racing the best miniature cars.The F1 Bloodhound Challenge called for groups of pupils to design, manufacture, test and then race miniature compressed air-powered balsa wood F1 cars. Teams were judged on car speed, as well as supporting evidence of their design and marketing display stand in ‘the pits’.Kilmarnock Academy – under the guidance of technical teacher Tom Campbell – has entered the Bloodhound Challenge for the last three years – and won it every time.Said Tom, who won Teacher of the Year in the Scottish Education Awards 2012: “This year, we entered four S3 groups in the Scottish final at Dundee University.

“We won trophies for best team (Team Zeus), fastest car (Team Turbo), most innovative thinking (Team Elite) and overall first prize (Team Zeus).

“We even beat our own Scottish record and came very close to the UK record. The pupils were fantastic, a real credit to the school”.

The fastest car they designed, powered by a CO2 canister, raced down a 20 metre track in 0.633 seconds, which equates to about 70mph.

The real Bloodhound SSC (super sonic car), which gives

the challenge its name, is part of a project which aims to break the world land speed record by achieving 1000 mph, or Mach 1.4. A super sonic car travels faster than the speed of sound and in Bloodhound’s case, faster than a bullet. The land speed record is currently held by Thrust SSC, at 763.035 mph.Headteacher Bryan Paterson said: “Our pupils designed and built four fantastic cars and put in an amazing performance in the regional final. It would not be unfair to say we destroyed the opposition. We took four teams who came first, second, third and fourth!

“The whole project was self-funded, with pupils approaching

sponsors and raising hundreds of pounds. They took this very seriously indeed – and some were even in tears of joy when they won!

“Thanks to our sponsors - GE Caledonian, Arnold Clark, Doosan, Marlborough Granite and Poster Plus – for their contributions, which made our participation in the competition possible”.

The enthusiastic pupils went on to try for UK title at the London finals - and the chance to compete at the world finals in Austin, Texas. Team Zeus (Michael Green, Heather Taylor, Jason Phillips and Robyn McGhee) picked up the prize for overall best team identity - and was placed 5th overall in the UK schools’ F1 Bloodhound Challenge, for the second year running.

Back l to r adults – HT Bryan Paterson, teacher Tom Campbell, Cllr Stephanie Primrose;

Back l to r pupils – Michael Green, Blair Kirkland, Jason Phillips, Robyn McGhee;

Front – Connor Duncan, Heather Taylor, Nathan Lennox (all S3)


On the trail of HISTORY

Young history explorers were given a good send-off as they took to the Kilmarnock Town Trail for the first time to uncover the rich history of their town centre.

Looking at the Execution Stone in the Burns Mall

In the Laigh Kirk’s historic churchyard Looking out from the Timmer Bridge, leading to Swine Raw Annanhilll PS teacher Graeme Crossley and pupils at The Cross


Whizz kid’sROBOTin London science fairA Kilmarnock teenager’s technical talent was so outstanding that he was asked to create a replica Mars Curiosity rover for a huge London science event – and sponsored to the tune of thousands.

Regan Kelly, 14, then a third year pupil at Kilmarnock Academy, was representing his school at a technology competition in Birmingham when he was approached by a VEX Robotics representative. He was intrigued by Regan’s work – including a hologram he had created of a car.The head of VEX in the UK and Europe, Paul McKnight, contacted the school and Regan was asked what he would like to build. He came up with the idea of a working replica of the robotic rover - an automated motor vehicle which propels itself across the surface of the planet Mars to film, examine territory and gather samples.

VEX awarded the school – and Regan - £40,000 worth of Autodesk software and £6,000 worth of materials for his ambitious project. The rover, now completed, went on display at The Big Bang: Young Scientists and Engineers Fair, earlier this year in London’s Excel Centre.Technology teacher Tom Campbell said: “Regan is in this position because of the initiative he has shown. He built the rover in his spare time.

“I’m hoping he’s going to be the third Nobel prizewinner Kilmarnock Academy produces, following in the footsteps of Sir Alexander Fleming and Lord John Boyd Orr”.

Headteacher Bryan Paterson said: “Regan is a real whizz kid in terms of technology - and also an extremely intelligent, personable young man.

“He is working on an amazing new hologram display for our entrance hall – which will be a first for any school in Scotland”.

A new education pack, prepared by local teachers working with Kilmarnock and District History Group, provided the children with a map of where to go. It also highlighted fascinating information about the landmarks they saw along the way – and about some colourful historic characters such as ‘Fiftywaistcoats’.The guide is packed with photos and illustrations of 12 key sites, as well as quizzes and flashcards for teachers to use. There are also follow-up activities for classroom projects. The trail also makes good use of Robert Burns’ connections with Kilmarnock. The children found out about his visits to the town and had the chance to match up Scots words the poet would have used, with their English equivalents.The Town Trail project was initiated by Graham Boyd, a physics teacher at Grange Academy - and a member of Kilmarnock and District History Group.

Graham said: “Kilmarnock has many historic buildings in a part of the town centre that has been designated an Outstanding Conservation Area. Sadly, some buildings were falling into disrepair, but the Council’s Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has helped to fund the repair of these buildings in a sympathetic manner, acting as a catalyst for regeneration of the whole town centre”.

Schools in and around Kilmarnock have all received the Town Trail pack and other East Ayrshire schools will also get copies.Graham Boyd believes the programme not only has educational benefits - but will also increase young people’s respect for their home town. He said: “We asked children what their perceptions of Kilmarnock were and some were rather negative. We checked again after they’d been on the trail - and in almost every case they had a greater appreciation of the town and how it had been shaped.”

Alan Ward, Acting Head of Schools, said: “This education pack represents the very best practice in collaboration between schools and community partners.

“All activities can be tailored to suit individual needs and there is flexibility to allow teachers to use their own judgment on how it should be delivered”.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration, said: “Thanks to Kilmarnock THI for funding this educational outreach programme to help young people to engage with their local environment and culture in an innovative way”.

The Town Trail for primary schools was supported by funding from Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland and East Ayrshire Council.

A recently-completed modern mural of the town crest in the Sandbed

Regan with teacher Tom Campbell


Pupils get down to BUSINESS

It was that time of year, near the end of the school session, when young people’s thoughts turned to future career paths.

Lucky Loudoun Academy pupils enjoyed a business seminar to help them with their choices.Following a motivational presentation from Fiona McKenzie of Centrestage, Kilmarnock, the youngsters had opportunities to meet with a range of presenters, local and national.They were given information on careers in fields such as engineering, hospitality, construction, performing arts, sports and science, among many others.

Contributors to the event came from the armed forces, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and the police, as well as local employers such as East Ayrshire Council, Valley Vets, Whitelee Windfarm and many more.Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “This seminar gave the pupils information to help them see what opportunities are available in employment and further education – essential for helping them to plan for the future.

“Engagement with business is part and parcel of our secondary school curriculum and events such as this help our young people to prepare for the world of work”

Saltire Awards for young helpersKind-hearted pupils were recognised for their services to the community in a ceremony at Loudoun Academy attended by proud parents, community partners and elected members.

Sixty young people from S1 – S6 received prestigious Saltire Awards in recognition of more than 6,500 hours of volunteering, both within and outside the school.Since August 2012, they have helped out at organisations including the Boys’ Brigade, Girl Guides, dance schools, Crosshouse Hospital, charity shops, the food bank, Youth Football Scotland and Kilmarnock Swimming Club.In school, the youngsters have volunteered at Children in Need events, running the tuck shop, the eco group, offering peer support, reporting on events for the Loudoun Academy website – and much more.

Sixth year pupil Ryan Rowe said: “The things I’ve done and seen through volunteering have been so amazing and far-reaching. My experience in reporting on football matches for Youth Football Scotland, for instance, has inspired me to take up a future career in journalism”.

Morag Pendry of the Co-operative Educational Trust presented Loudoun – the first School of Co-operation in Scotland - with a plaque in recognition of its co-operative approach. She said: “These young people typify the values and attitudes we are enshrining in Loudoun Academy”.

Willie Coffey, MSP for Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley, was delighted to present the awards. He said: “These young people are a credit to the school, their families and indeed the whole community.

“The Saltire Awards formally recognise the contribution of their volunteering. Supported by the Scottish Government, these new awards enable young volunteers to record the skills, experience and learning gained through successful placements in school, or provided by local and national voluntary agencies”.

The Volunteer Centre East Ayrshire, based in Kilmarnock, is responsible for the administration and delivery of the awards locally.

Performing Arts is a popular career area for many – Fiona McKenzie gives advice

Call centre work sounds like fun


Youth films Inspiring changeYoung people of East Ayrshire Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Youth Group recently launched three powerful films they had made to raise awareness of LGBT issues among their peers.

The short films, created by local youngsters working in partnership with LGBT Youth Scotland , are for use in local schools and youth groups. The aim is to promote inclusion and greater understanding.

At a screening to invited guests in Kilmarnock’s Dick Institute, Fergus McMillan, Chief Executive of LGBT Youth Scotland, commended the films.Kevin Wells, Community Learning and Development (CLD) team leader, presented a survey which identified the attitudes of local

young people in relation to LGBT identities.Councillor Tom Cook, Depute Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “We are committed to promoting equalities, eliminating discrimination and ensuring that the needs of all residents are taken into account.

“We still have much work to do, but this event marked our commitment to making East Ayrshire a more inclusive, caring and respectful place in which to live, learn and work”.

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “We know that it can be hard for many young people who grow up feeling different, but we also know that having the opportunity to be themselves and not be judged can feel liberating and have a very positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing”.

Talented twosome hit the high notesTwo talented brothers from the Irvine Valley – former pupils of Loudoun Academy – look set to build careers in the world of music.

Young musician Scott Kerr, of Darvel, recently undertook an eight-day trip to Oslo, where he starred as solo euphonium player for the European Brass Band and the European Youth Ten Piece. And brother David – head boy at Loudoun Academy during session 2012-13 - looks set to follow in his footsteps.Scott and his fellow musicians had three days of intensive rehearsal in the Norwegian capital, practising 11 hours a day. They performed five concerts, to great acclaim, in the City Halls. The European Youth Ten Piece also played at the opening ceremony of the European Championships. Following a series of auditions in Oslo, Scott, 21, a former Loudoun Academy pupil, won the honour of playing solo euphonium for the European Brass Band.

Norwegian TV company NRK filmed the concerts and interviewed the young musicians. Musical talent clearly runs in the family. Scott has completed his third year at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, while David, 17, was accepted by the Conservatoire on the performers’ degree course.

He was one of only two percussion players in the UK to be offered a place.Scott said: “I can honestly say, my time in Oslo gave me the best eight days of music I will probably ever have. I met all my musical heroes, played solos in front of 300 people each night and appeared on TV. We also had the opportunity to play with the world-famous Black Dyke Brass Band - a mind-blowing experience”.

Paul Wood, East Ayrshire Council Instrumental Music Service Manager, said: “It’s been a delight to see both Scott and David developing as musicians over the years.”

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “I wish both very talented brothers all the best for their future careers in music. I’m sure they would join me in thanking their music teachers at Loudoun Academy and in the instrumental service for their support over the years”.

Scott on stage with his euphonium

David playing xylophone at a recent awards ceremony in Loudoun Academy

Scott, right, in rehearsal


TOPof the classJames Hamilton Academy beat off stiff competition from across Scotland to be selected as a finalist at the Scottish Education Awards 2013.

Although the school did not win in the end, pupils and teachers were delighted to be shortlisted for the prestigious Sustainable Schools Award.Sustainability is part of the school’s ethos and the life of James Hamilton Academy as a community. Pupils understand the importance of sustainable resource use and have developed knowledge of ecological issues in Scotland and around the world, through a number of projects.A group from the school joined finalists at the awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow in June, where judges unveiled the winners.The awards, which celebrated the achievements of schools and teachers across Scotland, were open to all publicly funded schools.

That all important life-saving pintIt was time again for one local school’s annual rite of passage recently, when a number of senior pupils became eligible for that all-important first pint – of blood.

You can’t get blood out of a stone, but it is possible to get a good amount of the life-saving stuff out of willing donors – such as the 82 young people and teachers who offered up their arms at Loudoun Academy. Maureen Wilson, admin assistant, organised the school’s annual donor event. She said: “We have been donating at Loudoun for 21 years now, with an average of over 70 volunteers and around 60 successful donations each year. “This year, 34 staff and 48 pupils volunteered. We have gone from strength to strength and are indebted to everyone who has contributed. One of our main aims is to encourage senior pupils each year to develop a habit of a lifetime for a very worthwhile cause”.

House Captain Jane Strawhorn said: “It’s a coming of age kind of thing for us. Can you imagine saving someone’s life just by giving a wee pint of blood?”

Head Boy David Kerr said: “I’m doing this to help others who need it more than I do. I would definitely recommend it to others and will continue to give blood in the future”.

Scotland needs 5,000 blood donations every week just to keep up with demand.The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (SNBTS) works to ensure that NHS Scotland has enough blood to meet the transfusion needs of patients.

Pupil Abby Rutherford and donor carer Marion Powell

Enjoying well-earned tea and biscuits after giving blood are Gaenor Hamilton, teacher Gary Johnston, Scott McGuffie, Andrew Herdman

Colombian visitor Maria Camila Gomez Gutierrez and pupil

Shelby Stanislawski (front). Maria visited JHA as part of

an environmental project about the harsh ecological facts

of cocaine production


John Torbet, pupil Logan Howat, Michael Russell MSP, pupil Curtis Dhinsa (both pupils Auchinleck Academy)

Enterprising youngsters

BUILD bright futureMichael Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, visited Knockroon, Cumnock, to find out more about enterprise education in East Ayrshire.

On a tour of the new Hope Homes housing development on HRH the Duke of Rothesay’s Dumfries House Estate, the minister was delighted to see pupils of nearby Auchinleck and Cumnock Academies working alongside tradesmen building a ‘wee house’.As part of the schools’ business and enterprise programmes, the youngsters were learning skills to help make them more ready for the world of work. Others received training and work experience in design, architecture and marketing. They gained certificates in recognition of performance including SQA qualifications in Employability, Skills for Work and Leadership. In a presentation to Mr Russell, David Ross of Keppie Design showcased the enterprising work of pupils in schools across East Ayrshire on the Interaction initiative, which challenged students to design structures for use selling products.Craig Stevenson of Braehead Foods and Cook School Scotland also spoke about his work as a Business Leader, helping schools with initiatives in food and drink, designed to promote careers in this growth area for employment. Michael Russell MSP said: “Curriculum for Excellence is designed to give pupils the skills they need for learning, life and work.

“This initiative is a great example of how schools and employers can work together to help young people learn about the world of work, making their learning journey more interesting and preparing them for the start of their working life.”

Right on the MONEY Pupils in every school in East Ayrshire had the chance to learn more about money during My Money Week, which ran from 3 – 9 June.

The aim of the week was to support teachers in educating kids about cash, through fun activities in the classroom.A new partnership between financial education charity pfeg (Personal Finance Education Group) and Barclays, My Money Week ran in Scottish schools for the first time this year. The week aimed to improve young people’s financial skills and knowledge through special lessons, activities and a national competition. Barclays employees also shared their financial expertise with young people in teacher-led activities in schools. In addition, extra resources were targeted towards disadvantaged young people.Tracey Bleakley, pfeg chief executive, said: “Financial education is absolutely essential if we are to give young people the best possible start in life, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to be able to manage their money well”.

Ashok Vaswani, CEO UK and Retail Business Banking at Barclays, said: “When I speak to those who have taken part in Barclays Money Skills, volunteers and participants alike, I hear at first hand just how much young people and those who are disadvantaged benefit from dedicated support”.

Since the first My Money Week in 2009, more than three million young people have been helped to understand more about money. Last year, around 500,000 pupils took part, with 99% of teachers reporting an increase in skills and knowledge and 91% of teachers reporting a shift in students’ attitudes towards money.


LOUDOUN two-in-a-rowin CHEF challengeIn a red-hot cook-off, East Ayrshire pupils took both first and second prizes in the final of this year’s all-Ayrshire Young Chef competition at the Cook School, Scotland.

And it was first prize two years in a row for Loudoun Academy!The Cook School’s challenge to produce a main course for less than £5 was entered into enthusiastically by all comers.Nine young competitors – three each from East, North and South Ayrshire - battled for the title, but none could beat Abbie Delooze, 14, of Loudoun Academy, who came first with a Moroccan chicken dish that judges described as ‘exceptional’. As well as claiming the winner’s trophy, Abbie took home one of the first copies of the new Cook School Scotland recipe books, hot off the press. Runner-up was Aasiyah Patankar of Stewarton Academy, with a ‘beautifully spiced’ fish dish. Aasiyah received the runner-up trophy, as well as a cook book.South Ayrshire’s Rhyana McKie, of Carrick Academy, came third in the overall competition, while Greg Brown, Greenwood Academy, North Ayrshire, walked away with the prize for best dessert.Judges were hugely impressed with the efforts of young chefs from all three local authorities describing the quality of this year’s entrants as ‘outstanding’. The competition was run by the Cook School, Scotland with Tesco Ayrshire as ingredient sponsor.Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “Every single competitor did very well just to reach this final stage of the Ayrshire Young Chef challenge.

“Congratulations to all the budding young chefs – and especially to our East Ayrshire winners. Loudoun Academy obviously has some magical ingredient, to come top in this prestigious competition two years running!”

The nine young competitors

Winner Abbie Delooze, Loudoun Academy

Runner-up Aasiyah Patankar of Stewarton Academy


Students compete for ROBOTIC DOMINATIONBudding engineers from three East Ayrshire academies travelled to London to compete in the annual VEX UK National Championships at the Excel Centre, during The Big Bang: Young Scientists and Engineers Fair, in March – where around 60,000 visitors turned up to see the spectacle.

Thousands of pupils from all over the country spent months building robot creations – and Grange Academy, Kilmarnock Academy and Doon Academy youngsters prepared to do battle against all comers.The East Ayrshire groups competed against 33 other teams, not only for the chance to be crowned UK champions, but also for a place in the world championships in Anaheim, California.They did not win – but did themselves proud at the prestigious event.

Kilmarnock Academy headteacher Bryan Paterson said: “Our young people put an amazing amount of effort into this robotics project. The whole school was behind them”.

Grange Academy headteacher Fred Wildridge said: “I was delighted that our team of young people, who won the Scottish regional heat, made it to the UK final. They created a superb machine, working with Tom Barclay, PT of Design and Technology”.

Doon Academy headteacher John MacKenzie said: “The Doon Academy pupils are members of our robotics masterclass. Their enthusiasm for engineering and the support of their teacher, Miss Steel, led them to the finals of the regional heats.

“They raised funds through a beetle drive, a non-uniform day, company sponsorships and other events. The pupils have set a standard for other young people in a competition which raises awareness of the importance of the engineering sector for school leavers”.

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: “These are the largest school robotics competitions in the world. They are based on a science, technology, engineering, and maths focused platform that allows students to build their own robots whilst also encouraging teamwork, leadership, and problem solving skills”.

Doon Academy robotics team - left to right:

Reece Higgins, Rory Dempsey, Darren McLarty,

William McCleary, Paul Jamieson

COOK challengers’ sweet taste of successStaff and pupils alike are cooking up a storm at Loudoun Academy.

Catering assistant Nikki McNaught recently scooped the trophy at the national School Cook of the Year competition.

And just two months previously, 14-year-old Loudoun Academy pupil Abbie Delooze beat competitors from schools all over Ayrshire to win the Young Chef trophy.There’s clearly something in the air - or in the food – at the Galston school.To win the hard-fought Scottish School Cook finals at the Cook School Scotland, in Kilmarnock, Nikki had to produce a two-course meal complying with nutritional standards for schools, for £1.50 – and in just 90 minutes.Her winning meal was salmon and pea fishcakes served with a chilli and lime yoghurt dip, coleslaw and cucumber ribbons, followed by spiced apple strudel with summer berry sauce.Also taken into account by judges – who included some schoolchildren - were the cooking method, nutritional value, presentation and portion size of the meals served up. Other regions competing in the final were North Ayrshire, Inverclyde, Scottish Borders, Stirling and Tayside.Nikki performed brilliantly for East Ayrshire, supported by colleague Isabel Connell and catering manager Claire Keohone.And she’s delighted to show off her new silverware in school, adding a sparkle to the dining hall!


Budding young entrepreneurs entered Sir Tom Hunter’s Dragons’ Den once more, in a bid to scoop this year’s £4,000 prize money up for grabs.But so impressed was the billionaire entrepreneur by what he saw, that he took the decision on the spot to award not one, but four prizes – and increase the treasure trove to £7,000.He said: “I’m delighted at the learning and enthusiasm of these young people. Scotland is in safe hands!”As part of his commitment to mentor local pupils, Sir Tom – a former Cumnock Academy boy – yet again challenged East Ayrshire’s young people to come up with ideas for products, innovations or businesses of the future.Teams from eight academies presented their business plans to Sir Tom and his panel of judges – Heather Dunk (Kilmarnock College), Marie Macklin (Klin Group), Willie Mackie (Chamber of Commerce) and David Ross (Keppie Design) – in the Dragons’ Den style contest, in St Joseph’s Academy, Kilmarnock.

Top prize of £3,000 went to Loudoun Academy for a revolutionary School Tech app for smartphones or tablets, containing all school information, constantly updated – meaning no more backbreaking, heavy schoolbags filled with letters, handbooks or timetables!The judges thought this had great potential for selling to other education establishments.

Enter thedragons

Entrants, judges, invited guests


Newly-appointed Ayrshire College principal Heather Dunk immediately offered 15,000 students as a test base for the innovative app. Judges thought the young Loudoun team had a ‘great idea, great business plan and great presentation’. Sir Tom offered the services of his lawyer to help safeguard and patent their unique proposal.Kilmarnock Academy scooped second prize of £2,000 for its 3D driving simulation game to help people pass their driving test. Sir Tom said it had such ‘huge potential’ that he would offer a games developer to work with the team.Stewarton Academy was awarded third prize of £1,000 for a new product to aid sufferers of Meares-Irlen Syndrome (visual dyslexia). Judges praised their idea of ‘making a profit – and making a difference’.

The audience prize of £1,000 went to Cumnock Academy, for a business idea to sell a range of high quality pupils’ artwork on t-shirts, posters and cards.Ideas from the other teams included everything from high-quality hardwood products from Grange Academy, to St Joseph’s Academy’s cupcakes that ‘might just change your destiny’.Doon Academy put forward an online selling plan for customisable phone cases and Auchinleck Academy promoted a Juice-2-Go bar in schools.Sir Tom Hunter said: “Everyone is really a winner tonight. All schools are invited to my Hatchery in Dundonald, where they will receive the services of a mentor and a lawyer to help protect some of their excellent ideas.

He added: “Hats off to East Ayrshire for taking the decision to put £1 million into developing enterprise in education. I would like to see this happen all over Scotland. East Ayrshire has taken the lead and I applaud you”.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “Engagement with business is part and parcel of our secondary school curriculum in East Ayrshire and the Sir Tom Hunter Challenge is now established as a regular showcase welcomed by our school community.

“Our vision is to ensure that skills for work are developed in every young person. The courses and new experiences being offered in schools link to the economic growth areas for Ayrshire, to support business development now and in the future.

“We want our young people to have the abilities to take up careers in these growth areas. Most of all, we want them to develop that vital ‘can-do’ attitude.

“We asked our business leaders what they thought was the key quality for young people looking for jobs. Their answer was clear - it was that positive, upbeat mindset that gets the job done well”.

The Sir Tom Hunter Challenge formed part of the Council’s business enterprise programme, designed to develop entrepreneurial skills and help make young people ‘business ready’.

SIR TOM HUNTER CHALLENGE

Stewarton Academy team

Kilmarnock Academy team

Loudoun winners and Sir Tom Hunter


Auchinleck AcademyAuchinleck is using new CNC machinery in class, enterprise and employability opportunities. The refurbished manual lathes are set to enhance education for qualifications and for employability skills.

The school has run successful enterprise interdisciplinary projects using the laser cutter. Pupils have set up a company which markets and manufactures personalised glasses and medals. The cutter was also used in a project where Skills for Work pupils manufactured new signs for the Auchinleck Community Centre, bringing revenue into the school for future projects.Final practical projects were presented with laser cut themes to meet exam requirements and gave young people valuable experience for future careers The CNC lathe was used in a business/enterprise project when a local company approached the school to make components for headstones. The company was delighted with the result and offered a pupil work experience, which has ended up in a full-time apprenticeship in stonemasonry. Pupils attending weekly work experience on the Knockroon building site have developed skills from advanced joinery and plumbing to electrical skills. This year six Auchinleck pupils attended, with three gaining jobs related to the experience they had.Auchinleck Academy has also developed strong links with the Dumfries House education department. A number of pupils attended leadership programmes there, developed and implemented by the school. This link will be further developed for more subjects in the curriculum.

Doon AcademyInterviews for posts in Doon Academy’s new Young Enterprise Company were held by Gillian Cameron, Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and Tracy Allen, Principal Teacher of Business and ICT.

The S5/6 students are very keen and contact has been made with our Business Advisor – May Phillips, William Duncan and Co.This is an exciting opportunity for students to develop their understanding of business through real roles and tasks and with the support of business leaders. Doon Academy pupils are also following a Skills for Work and Employability programme alongside students from Cumnock and Auchinleck Academies. All S4 pupils focused on the application and interview processes through the PSE programme and were interviewed by employers for a position within a health club. The applicants were provided with feedback on their performance.This initiative links with the mock interview programme co-ordinated by Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. Each pupil applies for one of six posts. The best three written applications for each post are selected for interviews held at the Aviator Suite, Prestwick Airport. Pupils from Cumnock and Auchinleck also vie for the jobs, helping to create a realistic, competitive environment.

Around the schools…

House-building at Knockroon

Knockroon visitor centre


Loudoun AcademyLoudoun has a close link with Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce and a large number of S4 pupils have secured work experience with various companies.

There was a very successful Business Speed Networking event in June, when S5 pupils were given the opportunity to liaise with representatives from various professions. Many departments have taken advantage of business links: the music department is working with the University of the West of Scotland; the French department had a conversational afternoon with a local French chef; the geography department completed fieldwork at Whitelee Windfarm and Culzean. Sixty-six pupils gained Saltire awards for volunteering, in recognition of their enterprising extra-curricular activities such as events to raise money for Children in Need, the production of the school yearbook, the eco group and peer support.Loudoun Academy - the first Co-operative School in Scotland – is piloting an SQA qualification in Co-operative Studies. S5 pupils have set up a business and attained SQA qualifications at the same time. These pupils are also entering the Young Enterprise Competition – an excellent example of school and various large organisations working together.The S6 Young Enterprise Group Supernova Connections’ business venture was to make personalised mugs. The technical department co-ordinated the school’s Interaction design project – and Loudoun won the final competition.Another success was when a group of S3 pupils pitched their School Tech business idea to Sir Tom Hunter in June. They won the authority-wide challenge and, in addition to £3000 prize money, they are also being mentored by the Sir Tom Hunter foundation.The school has introduced a Personal Development Higher this session and pupils are working on enterprising ideas to gain this qualification.

James Hamilton AcademyFourteen S4 pupils - the first cohort to be involved in the school’s special Business Enterprise Skills Centre course which started in August 2011 - have achieved great success in the SQA exams, attaining six Standard Grade awards plus a range of other awards including: Construction Crafts Intermediate 1, Steps to Work, Engineering Skills, Digital Media and JSLA (Junior Sport Leader Award).

This gives them a total of 11 awards achieved over the two years, which they can take forward to the next stage of their careers.The majority of the pupils have successfully moved on to start college courses ranging from Social and Health Care to Plumbing and Vehicle Maintenance. Three pupils have decided to stay on at school and complete fifth year. Other pupils who achieved success via the BESC programme were S5 and S6 pupils who selected some of these new courses, such as Engineering Skills, to enhance their portfolio of qualifications. Loudoun students learn from the expert


St Joseph’s AcademyAfter a year of planning by members of St Joseph’s first ever S4 Enterprise Class, Kilmarnock’s first Festival of Ideas, Enspire, was launched at the school in June.

Speakers converged to talk about their work and to address the themes of the day - reinvention, transformation and inspiration.Keynote speech came from Simon Sharkey, Director of Learning at the National Theatre of Scotland. Over 100 people attended the event and the 20 pupils of IDLaunch who ran the festival all achieved Intermediate 1 or 2 Enterprise in S4.Three former pupils who worked with the Klin Group and East Ayrshire Council on window designs of for the Opera House attended the official opening of the regenerated building.Steven Bracki, Liam Gallagher and Siobhan Connelly met Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and presented her with an artwork by classmate Katie Murray. S1 pupils participated in the Sir Tom Hunter Enterprise Challenge. The Zodiac Cupcakes team (Morven Campbell, Erin Lannie, Carrie Morrison, Leah McFarland and Kieran Jones) designed a confectionery product, filmed an advert and pitched their idea to the judges.Zodiac Cupcakes were widely praised by Sir Tom and fellow

judges. Whilst not winners, they performed brilliantly and were the youngest team on the night. Zodiac Cupcakes will visit Sir Tom’s Entrepreneurial Spark in Dundonald, to develop their ideas.A team of S4 pupils recently completed work with Space Unlimited on the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Initiative. They contributed ideas to the regeneration plans for Kilmarnock and, over two days, worked with Town Centre Manager Fiona Nicholson to plan for the exciting future of the town.S3 pupils Scott Dipiazza, Paul Hart and Erick Sanchis attended a Micro-Tyco masterclass in Glasgow. The classes are designed to embed the experiential learning and expanded horizons that it inspires in participants. Scott said: “Overall, we had a fantastic, eye-opening evening”.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at the Opera House with

Councillor Douglas Reid, left and Provost Jim Todd, right


Stepping into the world of work

Seven hard-working youngsters were recently rewarded for taking their first steps into the world of work.

Following a successful six week programme of employability and life skills for young people with additional support needs, the East Ayrshire pupils were awarded certificates of achievement in a ceremony at Hansel, Symington.Young people who completed the course were Adam McNeill (Grange SLC); Scott Tweedie and Elizabeth Wallace (Park School); Matthew Battles and Patrick McGrath (Willowbank School); Pippa Graham and William Kerr (Cumnock SLC).

The youngsters enjoyed work experience opportunities in Hansel Village’s commercial laundry and in Lindy’s tearoom, as well as participating in more general employability training, to help develop communication and team-building skills.Councillor Iain Linton, then Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, presented certificates to the students on successful completion

of the programme, which was run by East Ayrshire Council’s education department, in partnership with Hansel.Councillor Linton said: “These young people face significant barriers in achieving a transition into employment. This programme gives them an experience of the world of work, which they can build upon as they prepare for life after school”.

Scott Tweedie in the laundry

The group of winners and officials at Hansel

Cllr Iain Linton helps Elizabeth Wallace check the washing


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Business Enterprise Bulletin - Issue 5 - East Ayrshire · 2017-02-13 · Stepping into the world of work..... 23 Youngsters HAVE designs ON building careers Two lucky ... They presented