Active Skills Academy Launches to Support Young People into Sport and Leisure Careers
A new initiative, the Active Skills Academy, has launched across Perth and Kinross to support young people taking their first steps toward employment in the sport, fitness, and leisure industry.
Delivered in partnership by the Live Active Leisure Active Schools team and the Skills and Employment Support, PKC Youth Employability team, the eight‑week programme began in February and will support 12 pupils from eight secondary schools: Bertha Park, Crieff, Blairgowrie, Kinross, Perth Grammar, the Community School of Auchterarder, Breadalbane Academy and Perth Academy.
The programme offers an alternative curriculum choice designed to help pupils work towards a positive destination when they leave school. Participants will work towards industry‑relevant qualifications including the Active IQ Level 1 Award in Fitness and Physical Activity, Emergency First Aid at Work and the Education Through Cashback Communication Module, which carries SCQF points.
In the final week, each pupil will take part in a bespoke work‑experience placement of their choice, giving them first‑hand insight into potential career paths and the opportunity to build valuable industry connections.
Pete McDougall, Active Schools Manager, said: “The Active Skills Academy is all about opening doors for young people who might not have previously seen sport and leisure as a realistic career option. By combining hands‑on experience with recognised qualifications, we are giving pupils the confidence, skills and support they need to take their first steps into the industry. We are already seeing real enthusiasm from the young people involved, and we are excited to watch their progress over the coming weeks.”
The project reflects a strengthened partnership between Live Active Leisure and PKC Youth Employability services, with both teams committed to tracking pupil progress and sharing success stories as the programme develops.
