Stagecoach oils wheels for schools

A LINK-UP between a bus firm and an organisation which supports young people has been set in motion.

Stagecoach has offered one bus to each of Moray's eight secondary schools to help pupils attend events run by Developing the Young Workforce Moray (DYW).

Due to the geographical nature of Moray and the cost of transport, transporting young people to initiatives such as workplace visits can be a challenge.

The partnership with Stagecoach entitles each school to one free trip during the academic year.

Sarah Baxter, manager of DYW Moray, whose remit is to nurture links between education and employers, said: "The cost of transport is a major issue in Moray as we are so widely spread across the authority. This partnership with Stagecoach will support young people to engage with the world of work as they plan for their future."

Daniel Laird, commercial director from Stagecoach North Scotland, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with DYW Moray as it’s essential that we support the growth of young people and provide them with the tools they need to enter the working world.

"We are committed to the communities we serve and by offering each secondary school in Moray a free journey to suit their needs and development, young people can have greater access to establishments that encourage further education, training or employment."

Vivienne Cross, head of schools and curriculum development, said: "Moray Council is delighted that local businesses are supporting our young people to enable them to participate in a wide range of activity and learning experiences, which will support them to have a better understanding of Moray’s local economy and career opportunities.

"DYW Moray partnership of employers and education offer many events from careers fairs, to workplace visits, to information events where young people can experience and meet people from different industries across Moray. However, we have found that on occasions, schools can’t commit to attending some of the events due to their geographical location, cost of transport or both.

"We are extremely grateful for Stagecoach’s commitment to working with us and have no doubt that their support will go on to benefit young people throughout this next academic year."

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