How was the partnership formed?
This partnership was created due to Rockwell looking for an employer willing to work long-term and who would allow young people into several of their departments. This would allow their young people a varying opportunity over the course of a 6-8 week programme. This project was required to be more bespoke to cover the needs of their young people.
Piperdam Golf and Leisure Resort wanted to work with young people, allowing them the opportunity to gain valuable insight and enhanced working experience within a real working environment.
The initial meeting was set up by the DYW Dundee and Angus team. Numerous meetings were then held in order to plan the best way forward and in order for Piperdam management to develop a deeper understanding of the young people and their requirements.
How did the project come about?
This project came about as a bespoke model for Rockwell students. A series of meetings resulted in a plan of what was required in order for the project to become a success and a model which can be repeated in years to come.
The students have developed an invaluable insight into the world of work and have gained valuable work experience year on year. This has only been possible due to the fantastic partnership working between industry and education and is a testament to the rewards that the DYW approach can bring.
How did they win?
Rockwell nominated Piperdam Golf and Leisure Resort for this category and believing they should win for the following reasons;
- Rockwell Learning Centre has been lucky enough to work exclusively with Piperdam since January 2018.
- During this project Piperdam has offered a personalised model of delivery to give our young people flexibility and variety.
- From the outset staff at Piperdam were willing to work with Rockwell and the student group who hold a particularly high level of need and often require individual packages of support.
- This is not something that phased staff at Piperdam and in particular Moira Leck, General Manager.
Outcome of the project?
This has resulted in meaningful work experience placements, the opportunity to participate in interviews, tours of the facility, a mentoring approach, and for one student a full time apprenticeship.
This has only been possible due to the strong partnership working between Piperdam and Rockwell Learning Centre and their whole hearted approach to working with our students. Piperdam are invested in our student group and their commitment to working with us could not be more evident and is second to none.