St Mirren FC and Kibble launch groundskeeper traineeship

The new apprenticeship-ship-inspired role in partnership with Kibble and its Skills Academy will see trainees maintain the football grounds to a high standard and support general site maintenance.

The hands-on experience will allow the recruits to be trained to operate machinery and gain an internationally recognised iHasco certification.

St Mirren is partly owned by Kibble alongside the St Mirren Independent Supporters Association (SMISA).

Through the agreement, Kibble provides St Mirren with support and expertise to help the football club grow as a business and create more employment opportunities for young people together.

(Image: BIG Partnership)

The focus on young workforce development has created work placements within the Scottish premiership club.

Young people have undertaken diverse training, from ball attendants to catering on match days.

Renovation projects at the club also provide practical experience in construction, painting, and decorating.

Most recently, young people at Kibble’s Skills Academy have begun transforming the first team dressing room.

Mark Macmillan, director of Corporate Services at Kibble, said: “Entering the world of work can be daunting for young people, but we try to break down barriers for those who attend The Skills Academy, both from within Kibble’s own services and from the wider community.

"Our partnership with St Mirren has been transformational for The Skills Academy as it offers tangible experiences, learning opportunities and in some cases employment.

"Having access to a premiership football team has motivated our young people."

Keith Lasley, chief operating officer at St Mirren, said: “The paid traineeship role is the first of its kind, and we’re proud to be able to facilitate these valuable opportunities for young people in our community.

"The focus on youth employability forms part of our wider ambitions and exciting future plans to be the best community centred club in Scotland.”