Supporting young people
SBHA supporting young people in Hawick – the next workforce generation
Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) were delighted to welcome two Hawick High School students, Lexie Keown (S6) and Rory Swinton (S4) for work experience recently.
Lexie was offered the opportunity to work with SBHA’s Engagement & Communication Team to gain practical experience of employment within digital marketing. Meanwhile, Rory, who aspires to pursue a career in joinery, gained real hands-on experience of the role within housing.
Commenting on the valuable experience this provided, Lexie says: “I loved having the opportunity to work in a professional marketing and communications environment. I gained a lot from my work experience with SBHA, growing in confidence and taking forward work independently to deliver set tasks.” Rory said, “I enjoyed working with SBHA, observing how they deliver work in Tenants’ homes. I had the chance to measure and cut materials, applying some of my woodworking skills from school.”
Lexie Keown and Rory Swinton
Recognising the value of providing young people with the opportunity to gain work experience, Julia Mulloy, SBHA’s Chief Executive, said: “Young people are crucial in building a strong and prosperous Scottish Borders economy for the future. As a local employer, we are committed to supporting young people in the early stages of their careers, and providing opportunities for work experience is one of the many ways in which we can do so. We wish Lexie and Rory all the very best in achieving their career goals in the future and look forward to providing further opportunities for young people.”
During the week, Lexie had an extra special task, visiting her former primary school, Drumlanrig, with SBHA’s Tenant & Community Engagement Facilitator, Louise McNeilage, to distribute prizes. This event marked SBHA’s 20th Anniversary, and Louise had organised a colouring competition at the school’s recent information evening – showcasing our commitment to nurturing young talent and connecting with the community.
Back row, left to right: Louise McNeilage (Tenant & Community Engagement Facilitator), Susan Falconer (Neighbourhood Housing Officer), Jeanette Gordon (Headteacher, Drumlanrig St Cuthbert’s Primary School), Lexie Keown (Hawick High School 6th year student on work experience – former pupil of Drumlanrig).
Front row, left to right: Ashton age 7, Megan age 7, Aria age 5, Ellie age 7.