10 August 2021

Perfect partnership yields positive results for young people

A productive partnership between Fraserburgh Academy, North East Scotland College (NESCol) and business and industry has seen young people’s performances improve.

Since 2010, pupils in senior phase (S4 to S6) at Fraserburgh Academy have been taking classes at nearby NESCol. Since then more and more pupils have been making the short journey to undertake their studies at NESCol.

Being emersed in the adult learning environment at an earlier stage than most young people saw improvements in Advanced Higher, Highers and National 4 and 5 qualifications due to the young people’s increased confidence.

Another advantage is the choice of courses offered both by Fraserburgh Academy and NESCol. The young people find a course of interest to them and as a result are in a better position to find a job or continue their studies in higher education.

Fraserburgh Academy has also been working with Score Group Limited and Shell. This partnership has seen S3 girls getting a taste of the worlds of oil and gas and engineering. The results of this joint working are the young people who complete the programme secure jobs in the industry or going to university to continue their education.

Cllr Gillian Owen, Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee chair, said: “Fraserburgh Academy really are making a fantastic difference to young people by giving them the skills and experiences to find employment or continue their studies. I would like to thank NESCol, Score Group Limited and Shell for their commitment to working in partnership with Fraserburgh Academy.”

Committee vice chair Cllr Rosemary Bruce added: “It is commendable Fraserburgh Academy is making great use of a fantastic college on its doorstep. This collaboration shows great initiative and demonstrates the importance of working together.”

Neil Cowie, Principal at North East Scotland College, said: “NESCol is extremely proud of its role at the heart of the communities we serve and the close links with Fraserburgh Academy and our valued industry partners are an excellent example of the type of positive work being delivered. Our aim is to ensure every student has the opportunity to fulfil their potential in an engaging and nurturing environment, with the pathways from school to college providing an important step for pupils who are taking their next steps in education and towards employment.”