Local Schools Take Part In Johnson and Johnson Initiative
Issued by Lifescan Scotland
Third year pupils from Alness and Invergordon academies will gain insight into careers in health care thanks to a Johnson and Johnson education programme.
The Johnson & Johnson Bridge to Employment programme encourages young people to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and maths by providing activities such as workshops, teacher placements and mentoring. It aims to encourage more students to enrol in further education and to address the health care worker shortage.
Alness and Invergordon are among six Highland secondary schools involved in the initiative, which is being delivered by the Inverness-based health care company, LifeScan Scotland. Part of the Johnson & Johnson franchise, LifeScan Scotland is one of the first European companies selected to host the Bridge to Employment programme.
The programme will be launched on 8 September at the newly opened Centre for Health Science in Inverness. Pupils, teachers and MSPs are amongst some of the guests who are expected to attend.
LifeScan Managing Director, Willie Printie, said: “We are delighted to be able to deliver this highly respected initiative. Since Johnson & Johnson launched Bridge to Employment in America in 1992, thousands of pupils have benefited in several countries. I believe LifeScan employees will also benefit as they will have the opportunity to develop their mentoring and coaching skills by getting involved in the programme.”
Moira Forsyth, Highland Council’s Education Development officer said: “We are delighted and grateful that LifeScan employees are dedicating their time to encourage local students to consider health care careers. By providing guidance and hands-on experiences in real-life settings, we hope that pupils will become more aware of the range of opportunities that exist in the sector.”
Minister for Schools and Skills, Maureen Watt, said: “We want young people to have the best possible start in life. We want to ensure they have the appropriate skills for work and that we help them achieve their full potential throughout their lives.
“Bridge to Employment supports those efforts and encourages more young people to consider careers in areas which are vital to growing Scotland’s economy – maths and science, technology and engineering. I wish this project and everyone involved in it – every success for the future.”
Bridge to Employment is being delivered through long-term partnerships with the Scottish Community Foundation, the UHI Millennium Institute, the Highland Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The programme is funded for four years.
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