Increase in positive destinations for Renfrewshire school leavers linked to partnership work

The latest statistics for Renfrewshire’s school leavers show an increased number going into positive destinations.

More than 97% are entering into apprenticeships and training, going to college or university, or starting work—an increase of 0.7% on last year’s stats.

Renfrewshire Council’s Children’s Services works with schools, national agencies and local partners to develop career pathways and vocational opportunities for young people. They have a strong partnership with Skills Development Scotland and Invest in Renfrewshire, with support from Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership.

Children’s Services work closely with Developing the Young Workforce West to develop opportunities for school pupils and school leavers. The coaching and mentoring Career Ready programme by the charity of the same name is well established in secondary schools. A traineeship programme is also being piloted by the Council’s Soft Facilities Management team.

Renfrewshire Pathfinders programme was launched in September 2024. The programme offers integrated work placements, qualifications and awards, and enhanced support to young people moving from school to attend West College Scotland, Invest in Renfrewshire, or other suitable destinations.

A key part of the destination success comes from listening to the voices of our young people. Their feedback shapes the opportunities and pathways on offer.

Councillor Emma Rodden, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Policy Board, said: “Seeing more young people go into positive destinations is a testament to the hard work and effort our teams, schools and partners put in. We are listening to what young people want and implementing that together as a partnership. There’s a huge variety of support that is available for young people here in Renfrewshire. This is vital work and I’m pleased to see the difference made over the last year.”