Formula 1 racing, football and ‘speed-dating’ for employees and employers are just a few of the innovative learning programmes being offered to senior school pupils in parts of Scotland.
The success of these projects and others was showcased at the Making A Difference event in Stirling University’s management centre in November.
learndirect scotland has tapped into the wealth of knowledge in its 500 plus branded learning centres to find eight examples of how to work successfully with school age learners.
The projects, which support the Scottish Executive’s Lifelong Partners strategy, range from involving pupils in Formula 1 racing and other sports, to developing the skills employers want through practical work-related programmes.
Damien Yeates, chief executive of learndirect scotland, said: “It is clear that these innovative ideas address a range of issues which affect young people, such as disaffection with the learning system, lack of opportunity locally; lack of information; and a need for more individual support and encouragement.
“These projects demonstrate that learning centres, working closely with other partners, are creating new, high quality and stimulating learning opportunities.“
The learning centres are also featured in a publication launched at the event.
Stirling MSP Sylvia Jackson, pictured with Damien, said: "learndirect scotland is to be congratulated for the work it has undertaken with the pilot projects for schoolchildren dealing with employability skills.
“In partnership with the Scottish Executive, business, training agencies and educational establishments, I see this as a key way to improve work chances for those pupils who leave school with few qualifications. I will be pressing for this initiative to be developed locally in my constituency."