Meaningful May: Empowering Senior Pupils Through Workplace Visits and Employability Workshops

This quarter, we are excited to support the  Meaningful May  initiative once again, providing senior pupils with invaluable experiences and insights into various professional environments. Our programme includes a series of workplace visits and workshops aimed at preparing students for their future careers and helping them make informed decisions about their paths after school. ​

Meaningful May is an initiative dedicated to supporting senior pupils who are studying three or fewer National 5 qualifications and therefore not taking the full four weeks of exam leave during May. By participating in this programme, senior pupils can engage with professionals, explore different industries, and gain practical knowledge that will serve them well in their future. 
The programme spans four weeks in May and includes activities such as: 

• Developing Transferable/Meta Skills: Activities where pupils can build, showcase, and identify their skills, often involving practical tasks led by employers. 

• Insight into the World of Work: Pupils are exposed to various sectors through talks and site visits. 

• Employability Skills: Sessions on CV writing, interview skills, and mock interviews. 

We’re incredibly grateful to all the employers who have generously supported this initiative and made these opportunities possible. For some of our out-of-school locality offers, a heartfelt thank you goes out to Edinburgh Leisure, Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh Airport, The Kimpton Hotel, Police Scotland, NHS Lothian, and Edinburgh College. 

Throughout May, senior pupils will visit organisations, participate in interactive workshops, engage in meaningful discussions with industry professionals, and gain first-hand experience of various work environments. These activities are designed to inspire and motivate students, helping them to envision their future careers and understand the skills and qualifications required to succeed. 

We believe that the Meaningful May initiative will have a lasting impact on our senior pupils, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration they need to thrive in their future careers. We look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this programme and continuing to support our young people as they embark on their professional journeys. ​