Name, new job title and schools you are going to be covering:
Clare Scott, Employer School Coordinator for Bridge of Don Academy and Oldmachar Academy
As a young person, what were your aspirations growing up?
My aspirations changed constantly and were many and varied. I went through one phase of wanting to be a TV newsreader. I didn’t achieve that goal, although I did read the news as a volunteer with my local hospital radio station!
What pathway did you follow when you left school?
I studied European Business Administration with Languages. The course covered a lot of different subjects, including marketing, which is where I found my focus. I worked in marketing and communications for 20+ years, gaining some additional specialist qualifications along the way. For a large part of this time I was freelance, which gave me the chance to work with an interesting mix of organisations.
What are you most excited about getting stuck into in your new role?
I’m keen to fully understand the needs of the schools and the employers I’ll be working with. It will be exciting to help translate these needs into meaningful opportunities for young people.
How crucial do you think the link is between schools and employers?
It’s vital. Today’s school pupils are tomorrow’s workforce. Bringing pupils and employers together at an early stage opens young people’s eyes to the opportunities that are available to them and allows them to develop the skills to exploit these opportunities. For employers, engaging with schools allows them to showcase their sector and play an active role in shaping their future employees.
What do you think is the greatest benefit to employers that are involved with DYW?
It’s hard to choose just one. For organisations facing a skills shortage, engaging with DYW is a crucial way to future-proof their businesses. There are a whole host of other - perhaps less obvious - upsides too, such as the energy and fresh thinking that young people bring to organisations. Becoming a mentor or coach is also beneficial for existing employees.
Do you have a motto or personal mantra that you live by?
Have courage and be kind. It’s from Disney’s Cinderella, rather than a business tycoon, but I like it!
What would be your one piece of advice to 12-year old you?
Don’t worry if you don’t know what you want to do in life – very few people do. Keep exploring any new opportunities that come your way and seek out new people and experiences.
