MCR Pathways is calling on volunteers from all backgrounds to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people across East Renfrewshire. By giving just one hour a week, mentors can help build confidence, raise aspirations, and create lasting change for a young person in their local community.

Volunteer mentors are needed in the following schools: Barrhead High School, Eastwood High School, Mearns Castle High School, St Luke’s High School, St Ninian’s High School, Williamwood High School, and Woodfarm High School.

Anyone interested in learning more is encouraged to join one of MCR Pathways’ weekly information sessions, or visit their website to explore the role and use the school locator to see where mentoring is available.

If your organisation would be interested in hosting an information session for your team, please contact Laura.mckechnie@mcrpathways.org who will be happy to arrange this.

You can also view further information by downloading the information document below

Another fantastic two days of STEM West are officially complete, and what an event it’s been!

We were blown away by the level of creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment shown by this year’s exhibitors. With more than 800 pupils attending from across our four local authority areas, over 50 employers delivered an incredible range of hands-on activities and interactive experiences (with the occasional freebie).

From 3D-printed guitars and AR headsets to LEGO builds and robotics, our young people had the chance to explore future careers in the most engaging way possible.

A huge thank you to every employer who invested their time, energy, and passion into making STEM West 2025 such a success. Your efforts make a real difference in inspiring the next generation of talent.
 

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