Pupils in Kilbarchan explored future careers options in a special week-long event. A variety of local businesses and professionals came in for a visit and chatted about their experiences in the workplace.
During the week, pupils developed essential skills. These included communication, creativity, critical thinking, and flexibility. They also learned transferable skills that employers consistently say matter most.
Each day, the children also reflected on how these workplaces align with the school’s core values.
Head teacher Fiona MacKenzie explained:
This week brought our values to life. We want our young people to leave Kilbarchan Primary School not only with strong academic foundations, but with character, confidence and aspiration. When our pupils see real people sharing real journeys, including the challenges as well as the successes, it helps them understand that their own futures are full of possibility. By being Kind, Welcoming, Supportive and Determined, they are already building the qualities that will carry them forward into whatever path they choose.
Being Kind is about understanding the importance of empathy, teamwork and respect in every workplace. Our visitors shared how positive relationships and emotional intelligence are just as important as qualifications.
Being Welcoming reflects our belief that opportunity should be open to all. By introducing pupils to a diverse range of industries and pathways, we broadened their horizons and helping every child see that there is a place for them in the world of work.
Being Supportive means recognising that success is rarely achieved alone. Through discussions about mentorship, collaboration and professional networks, pupils learned that asking for help and working together are strengths, not weaknesses.
Being Determined underpins everything we do. Our speakers shared honest stories about perseverance, setbacks and resilience, reinforcing the message that ambition, effort and self-belief open doors.
We are extremely grateful to our partners across industry and our local community for helping us strengthen the link between learning and life, and for inspiring our pupils to think ambitiously about the many opportunities that lie ahead.