Career Ready is a two-year programme designed to empower young people in S5/S6 to kick-start their chosen career through a series of authentic workplace experiences and a network of support.
This year saw a total of 43 students on West Lothian Council's Career Ready Programme and all benefited from a four-week-long, paid, internship across a range of national and local employers.
Pupils recently marked their successful participation in the programme at a local graduation ceremony held at Winchburgh Academy which was attended by partner employers, parents and carers and representatives from West Lothian Council.
One local Career Ready graduate was also given special recognition at the ceremony.
T-Jay Tallons, Armadale Academy, who was matched to a mentor from Dalmahoy Golf and Country Club, was named as the West Lothian recipient of the Career Ready 2023 Shona McKenzie Honours.
The award recognises a few Career Ready graduating students from amongst the many, all of whom have made the most of their Career Ready opportunity and experiences.
Executive councillor for education, Andrew McGuire passed on his congratulations to all of the successful Career Ready graduates.
He said: "The Career Ready Programme is a key initiative, bridging the gap between education and work by helping young people prepare for the world of work through gaining first-hand experience of the workplace. It is a programme that benefits both pupils and participating employers. I'd like to congratulate all West Lothian pupils who have taken part and hope that the experience will stand them well for the future."
Could your business help to prepare a young person for the world of work?
For more information on Career Ready or how to support other employability programmes in schools please visit: https://www.investinwestlothian.com/business-support/workforce-development/developing-the-young-workforce/