With only a few weeks to go, we're delighted to share that STEM West 25 is now at full capacity!

We have a fantastic line-up of employers ready to engage with young people and showcase their industries through hands on STEM activities.

A huge thank you to all the fantastic employers who have signed up, we can’t wait to welcome you!

This months DXC Digital Futures Academy introduced students to the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it can be used to protect endangered animals from poachers.

Using Google’s machine learning tools, pupils worked in teams to build and train their own AI models, racing against the clock to detect virtual wildlife crimes.

The session showcased how technology can be a force for good, inspiring young people to explore real world applications of AI while developing teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Thank you to all of the DXC staff for hosting this session!

This month, 60 pupils from secondary schools across West Dunbartonshire took part in Chefs Day at West College Scotland, with an exciting Travel & Tourism twist.

Students had the opportunity to experience:
✅Professional chocolate making demonstrations
✅Flavourful curry masterclasses
✅Hands on barista training
✅A cabin crew experience aboard “West Airways”

A huge thank you to the dedicated staff at West College Scotland for creating such an engaging and inspiring day for our young people. Opportunities like this give students a real taste of future career pathways in hospitality and travel.

A huge thank you to Scottish Leather Group for hosting site tours at their Bridge of Weir facility for 7 schools over 4 days as part of Renfrewshire Employability Month.

A special shout-out to Mark Cowan and Rhona Ferris for giving so much of their time and helping make this happen.

The schools selected pupils with an interest in STEM and manufacturing, and feedback from the tours was 100% positive.

Another big thank you to Emma Stockan from the Renfrewshire Council Education Team for all the logistical support.

If you’d like to get involved with DYW West, get in touch by emailing info@dywwest.co.uk

Are you looking to engage with young people but aren’t sure where to start?

DYW is offering a free online workshop on 26th November, from 10am–12pm designed to support individuals looking to engage with young people in schools, colleges, or the workplace.

During the workshop you will:

• Learn top tips for planning and delivering activities

• Boost your confidence in engaging with young people

• Make a real difference in their career journeys

This is the perfect opportunity to gain hands on guidance to help you get started.

Click here for more information and to sign up

We're on TikTok!

We’re excited to bring you behind the scenes insights into real jobs, day in the life stories of apprentices and industry professionals and career tips.

Whether you’re planning your next steps or just curious about interesting career paths, our TikTok channel has something for everyone.

Follow us on TikTok to explore all our content: https://buff.ly/j4ZBX9N

Join us at West College Scotland, Clydebank Campus for STEM West 25 on 17th–18th November, offering S2–S4 pupils two action-packed days of hands-on STEM activities.

This event provides an excellent opportunity for employers to showcase what their business does, spark curiosity and inspire young minds. It's  also a chance to promote career pathways in your industry and connect with the next generation of talent.

Spaces for participating employers are already more than half full, so interested organisations are encouraged to register as soon as possible to secure their place.

To register, please visit https://buff.ly/gI8x5px

If you have issues registering or would like to know more please contact info@dywwest.co.uk

#DYWWest #STEMWest25 #STEMCareers

Paisley Grammar School’s Modern Languages Department is hosting their Modern Languages Careers Event on 10th November.

They’re on the lookout for a wide variety of stallholders to showcase how languages are used across different careers and industries.

What does a stallholder do?
As a stallholder, you’ll be asked to bring along some display material about your career and chat with pupils as they explore the event.

If you (or someone you know) use languages in your work, or your company has international links, this is a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation.

If you’re interested in being a stallholder, please contact: gw07hopelouise@glow.sch.uk

You can help spread the word about Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) and be a champion for young people in Scotland.

By pledging your support, you’ll join a growing network of businesses making a real difference in the lives of young people, while discovering how it can benefit your organisation.

Support young people to find their potential and start their journey to success by offering fair work and promoting inclusivity. Ready to make an impact?

Click here to pledge your support today.

Following the retirement of Liz Connolly FRSE as Principal & Chief Executive of West College Scotland, who in her time gave great support on the Board of DYW West from 2018, we are delighted to share that Anne Campbell, who has recently been appointed as the new Principal & Chief Executive, has joined the board.

Anne commented “I am delighted to be joining the DYW West Board. DYW West, through its extensive network of employers, provides our young people with inspirational opportunities and experiences. It is a vital part of our skills system, and I am proud to be able to contribute to its strategic direction”.

Jim Hannigan, COO at National Manufacturing Institute Scotland and chair of DYW West said “West College Scotland has been an outstanding host for DYW West since January 2016 and we are thrilled that Anne has joined the board, building on the great support Liz contributed over many years. Myself, our fellow board members and the DYW West team led by Bob Davidson look forward to working with Anne.”