Stories with Impact: Preparing for Work Project

Delivered in partnership with DYW Moray or Preparing for Work project saw 20 Supported Learning students take part in a series of employer-led engagements, including site visits, hands-on sessions, and workshops. We caught up with the teams involved to learn more about the project and the impact it has had.

Can you provide a summary of the project?

Running from October 2024 to March 2025, the project initiative was designed to bridge the gap between education and employment by embedding real-world experiences into the Preparing for Work course. With sessions organised by DYW Moray, employers co-designed and delivered accessible, interactive sessions tailored to the students, offering insights into workplace roles, expectations, and career pathways.

What has been the results from the project?

We have seen great results of the project:

Students gained valuable employability skills, confidence, and personal growth through direct exposure to real working environments. Activities included factory tours, CPR training, and Q&A sessions with professionals.

It has allowed employers to showcase non-traditional pathways to employment and offer placements, with one student has completing a successful placement at Elgin Town Hall. In addition, it has strengthened relationships with businesses such as Diageo becoming long-term partners, with their CV and interview workshops now a staple of the programme.

Teaching staff have reported increased awareness of labour market needs and have adapted lesson planning to be more inclusive and responsive. They have also incorporated employer insights into teaching, using real-world examples and workplace vocabulary to enhance learning.

What (if anything) is next?

We continue running the project and adapting it to fit the needs of the students. Currently our future plans include:

• Expanding into new sectors to reflect Moray’s changing labour market.
• Gathering structured learner feedback to refine and improve the programme.
• Developing teaching resources and CPD to further embed employer engagement into curriculum design.
• Strengthening partnerships with existing and new employers to ensure long-term sustainability.