Minister for Employability and Training Visits e-Sgoil

Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Employability and Training, Scottish Government, today visited e-Sgoil as part of a Developing the Outer Hebrides Young Workforce (DYW) Event.Minister for Employability and Training, Jamie Hepburn, said: "It was fantastic to visit e-Sgoil and see how this new group is helping to bring employers and schools closer together, providing young people with greater opportunities to learn more about the world of work.

The creation of DYW Outer Hebrides Group completes the network of our 21 regional groups covering the length and breadth of Scotland. This type of approach will help employers in the area meet their current and future workforce needs and identify skills gaps, which will help to boost the local economy. I would encourage all local businesses and young people to get in touch with the DYW Outer Hebrides Group to see how they can benefit from this support.

Our support for DYW groups form part of our overall commitment to building a skilled and educated workforce which includes our Modern Apprentices and a new Flexible Workforce Development Fund which will help to up-skill or re-skill employees."

Comhairle Leader, Roddie MacKay, said: “We would wish to thank Mr Hepburn for taking the time to come to see us and to sample the good work and initiatives taking place within e-Sgoil. e-Sgoil is not just for Western Isles but for Scotland as a whole. Our vision is that all learners can experience an education enriched by digital technology and we very much appreciate the support which we have received from Scottish Government.

“The Comhairle remains committed to equipping our young people with the necessary skills and qualifications for their working life.”

In addition, for the third year running, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar schools have finished top of the Scottish Local Authorities’ table with the highest % of school leavers attaining 1+ vocational qualifications at SCQF Level 5 and above

The associated Scottish Government attainment data as at June 2017 showed that 31.2% of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar school leavers are attaining 1+ vocational qualifications at SCQF Level 5 and above.