Young people in East Dunbartonshire’s Secondary Schools are benefitting from the introduction of dedicated full time Youth Development Workers based in their schools.
Working in partnership with Headteachers and teaching staff, Youth Development Workers focus on a variety of youth services, such as employability programmes and well-being to supporting young people disengaging with learning and wider achievement.
The Council first piloted the appointment of a dedicated Youth Development Worker in Kirkintilloch High School in June 2021. The pilot proved to be a great success and a video demonstrating the positive impact was produced in partnership with Education Scotland, YouthLink Scotland and The West Partnership. It shows interviews with young people, the Youth Development Worker and the Head Teacher. As a result of the successful pilot in Kirkintilloch High School, Youth Development workers have now been appointed to all Secondary Schools in East Dunbartonshire.
Convener of Education, Councillor Lynda Williamson, said,
East Dunbartonshire Council has long provided our young people with a range of youth services; from youth club projects and Positive Achievements to Youth Voice groups such as East Dunbartonshire Youth Council and East Dunbartonshire Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament.
“Now, with the introduction of dedicated Youth Development Workers based within our secondary schools, our young people have even greater access to youth services. Our Youth Development Workers work in close partnership with school management teams to provide tailored programmes meeting the specific needs of each school community. For example, there may be a focus on employability or wellbeing or outreach support.
“I would urge parents and carers to watch the excellent video on the youth development work at Kirkintilloch High School as it is a fantastic insight into the positive impact this provision is having on young people across East Dunbartonshire.”
The Kirkintilloch High School – Youth Work and School Partnership video is available to view on YouTube.
