The first Scottish Careers Week will see pupils in Perth enhance their digital skills through a series of classroom activities.
More than 200 students at St John’s RC Academy will take part in Classroom Clash, the latest activity from My World of Work Live – part of the career service delivered by national agency Skills Development Scotland (SDS).
The new programme aims to introduce young people to the sectors “critical” for future economic growth in Scotland, with a focus on computing and ICT, construction and building, engineering, healthcare and social work.
Classroom Clash is one of the “highlights” of Scottish Careers Week, which takes place from 15-19 November.
With the pandemic making it challenging to complete work placements, it is hoped opportunities through My World of Work Live will provide new ways for pupils to explore potential career paths.
Steven McLaughlin, St John’s Academy principal teacher of guidance, said: “Having access to work experience and gaining knowledge of the world of work is incredibly important for pupils, as it helps shape their future career ambitions.
“While this may be a different approach to our work experience week, it provides an exciting new way for pupils to learn about important sectors across Scotland and the opportunities that are available now and will be available in the future.”
On Thursday 18 November, S4 pupils without work experience placements will compete in teams, learning about Scotland’s key sectors through a quiz and sector-focused mini games.
S1 pupils will also experience the Classroom Clash activity in a session on Friday 19 November.
Stefan Mullan, a My World of Work Live adviser, will deliver both sessions with support from TechFest, a charity which provides quality science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) events throughout Scotland.
He said: “Working in partnership with TechFest, we are excited to join St John’s pupils in their work experience week and help pupils understand and explore the exciting opportunities available in some of Scotland’s key sectors.
“The activities delivered will also help pupils to develop their career management skills and learn more about how these relate to the world of work.”
Teachers across Scotland can book Classroom Clash and other free live and virtual activities for their pupils through Marketplace on My World of Work.