Thousands take part in the first Renfrewshire Employability Week

The local authority along with local businesses and employers came together to support people into new career paths and showcase career and upskilling opportunities. 

From 2 to 6 September, more than 20 events took place including sessions with social care professionals and open days with key local employers such as Malcolm and McTaggart Construction.

McTaggart Construction Open Day (Image: Renfrewshire Council)

Ross Hammell, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at the construction company, said: “McTaggart were thrilled to offer an on-site experience for individuals exploring careers in construction.

“By providing hands-on exposure, we hope to spark interest and support the development of valuable skills that will benefit both individuals and the community.”

School pupils also got an introduction to careers in sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with visits to CPI’s medicine manufacturing centre.

(Image: Renfrewshire Council)

Alison Engles, Performance Manager at CPI said: “We hope students were inspired to consider a range of careers and pathways in STEM in the future. 

“As an apprenticeship provider, this was also a valuable opportunity for our apprentices to share their experiences and offer a real insight into the world of work.”

S5 Pupil Milo Sneddon (Image: Renfrewshire Council)

Milo Sneddon, S5 pupil at Park Mains High School, said: "The event opened my eyes to the number of ways to get into a career in STEM, such as apprenticeship, university, college or straight from school. 

“There are lots of aspects I hadn't considered. It’s really helped me understand what my options are after school, as well as the different jobs.”

Paisley Town Hall (Image: Renfrewshire Council)

Paisley Town Hall also hosted an event outlining career opportunities available across the public sector, a jobs fair showcasing the latest vacancies in retail, and support to move into self-employment.

Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said: “It was fantastic to see the range of opportunities available for people to access during our first-ever Employability Week.

“I want to thank everyone involved in making the week of action happen.

“We want to ensure everyone has the support they need to take the next step in their career – whether that’s a first foray into the workplace or a complete switch of careers.

“Employability Week was a snapshot of the support that the council can provide.”