Vocational Summer Activities
Opening up work opportunities for young people
Shetland Islands Council’s Youth & Employability Service designed a bespoke summer programme for pupils facing social and economic barriers. Led by Senior Youth Development Worker Stewart Hornal, the initiative connected young people with social and learning activities while giving them direct experience with local employers.
Aims and plan
The programme was created in response to the challenges some pupils face during school holidays, when financial hardship, rural isolation, and lack of opportunities are most acute. Some young people had never travelled outside their local area, visited Shetland’s outer isles, or seen local workplaces. The aim was to provide meaningful experiences, raise aspirations, and build confidence by connecting pupils directly with employers.
Fifteen pupils aged 13–16 were offered places, with ten taking part. Participants came from backgrounds experiencing rural and socioeconomic inequalities, with some having additional support needs.
What we did
The six-week programme included weekly visits to employers in sectors such as tourism, aviation, animal care, recreation, and creative industries. Employers discussed career pathways, qualifications, and the realities of different jobs. Pupils had the chance to ask questions, practise employability skills, and network with potential future employers in a supportive environment.
Alongside workplace visits, youth workers supported activities designed to strengthen social skills, teamwork, and confidence. The programme also provided respite for parents while giving pupils positive peer experiences and opportunities to develop independence. All participants worked towards a Youth Scotland Hi 5 Award (SCQF level 2), recognising the skills they developed.
Impact
Young people grew in confidence over the summer, asking questions more readily and showing greater curiosity about the world of work. Staff reported clear improvements in social skills, employability knowledge, and teamworking. Friendships were formed and maintained beyond the programme, and bonds with the Youth Work and DYW teams strengthened.
Participants reflected on the value of the experiences:
"This is really calm, I have never made my own pizza.”
“I forgot how fun it is to work with ponies and be outside.”
“I would like to come back, I did not know this was here.”
Employers also responded positively:
“I am delighted how calm and confident this young person is, and he can come back anytime.”
Learning and next steps
Feedback showed that focusing on skill-based experiences was more beneficial than past approaches. Young people not only enjoyed the activities but also gained practical skills and confidence for the future. Building on this success, similar programmes are planned for summer 2025, with continued partnership working to ensure sustainability and reach.
Contribution to the Shetland Partnership
- Participation: Involving young people directly in shaping their learning experiences.
- People: Building confidence, skills, and social connections.
- Place: Strengthening links between schools, employers, and communities across Shetland.
- Money: Supporting young people’s future employability and economic participation.