Carrick Academy has won the ‘Education and Business Partnership’ category at the regional Chamber Awards 2018.

The Maybole school secured top spot for their work with local businesses aimed at getting young people ready for employment.

Placements in cafes, primary schools, nursing homes, factories, health clinics and with a local vet have helped young people at the school achieve their Skills for Work Level 5 and 6 Personal Development Award.

The judges were particularly impressed with the strong links the school has forged with the Carrick Centre.

The centre has provided a number of opportunities for the young workers on everything from admin and ICT to childcare and grounds maintenance.

Not only has attending the centre allowed the youngsters to sharpen their employability skills but they have also been able to complete a number of courses and workshops.

Councillor William Grant, Lifelong Learning Portfolio Holder for the Council said: “This award recognises the SQA’s continued signposting to Carrick Academy as a school of best practice and that many young people have gone on to positive destinations with the help of this work experience.

“The placements continue to play a crucial role in the personal development of senior pupils as they prepare for life beyond the classroom.”

Johnny Rusk Depute Head Teacher at Carrick Academy said: “Our senior pupils benefit greatly from their work experience, not just in terms of the developments in key employability skills but also in the ‘softer skills’ of communication and teamwork.”

The school will now go through to the national finals which take place on 29 November in London.