The Leadership Academy
The Leadership Academy is designed for 13 -16 year old pupils and is currently a joint East Ayrshire Council and Kilmarnock College programme which is supported by the European Social Fund.
The 5 day programme aims to explore leadership in young people through a combination of activities, while at the same time develop core skills in communication, problem solving and working with others. The activities include team building, outdoor education, performing arts, digital media and team challenges. Each day focuses on a different theme i.e. creativity, determination, building confidence and self esteem as well as providing an enjoyable, challenging and active learning experience.
Winter Leavers' Programme
A programme designed to offer S5 Winter Leavers the opportunity to attend college and try a range of vocational subjects which will help prepare them for employment or further study at college. The Winter Leavers Programme offers students a different experience from school. Throughout the 17 week programme, students experience the different subject areas that the college specialises in - that may be in the garage workshop, learning a bit about essential motor maintenance, in a hair and beauty salon, learning how to look your best at an interview or at our Centre of Sporting Excellence, checking on the progress of your fitness levels.
Successful applicants are invited to a 2 week induction at the college in June to give a taste of what the college has to offer. It is most likely that students who successfully complete the programme will be offered a place on an appropriate January start course at the College.
Cheryl Blackwood (Auchinleck Academy)
The WLP gave me the chance to learn a lot of new things. I definitely matured and gained a lot of confidence on the programme. So much so that I am now a volunteer at the college as a Youth Engagement Assistant!
Schools Programme
The College offers a range of subject areas at a variety of different levels for students who are still at school and who may wish to attend college on a part-time basis to study subjects not on offer in school. In partnership with local authorities, we offer ‘taster' courses and Skills for Work courses in a range of vocational areas as well as a few select Highers and Advanced Highers. There is definitely something for everyone!
Greg Campbell (Stewarton Academy)
I go to college two afternoons per week and attend Skills for Work Construction and Engineering, and Metalwork classes. I've made lots of things in both classes. I've passed all the assessments in the Skills for Work course which I am really pleased about. Once I finish the course, I will have a proper qualification.
The Prince's Trust
The Prince's Trust Team Programme is designed to help develop core skills, self confidence and motivation. A team of up to 15 people, both employed and unemployed, spend 12 weeks having fun, helping the community, the environment and people in need. During this time there will be loads of team-building activities and a residential week, which is based outdoors. The programme is 12 action packed weeks when anything can happen. Fun, challenging and rewarding, the Prince's Trust can make a real difference to your life.
The PEZ - Personal Empowerment Zone
The PEZ - Personal Empowerment Zone aims to help students develop skills to enable them to progress onto a vocational college course or employment. This is achieved by students participating in a combination of activities, while at the same time offering the opportunity to gain core skill qualifications in communications, problem solving and working with others through a local investigation project. The course also includes spending a week with the fire brigade, learning about fire safety and emergency rescue training and being involved in a project for the benefit of the community. P.E.Z would be especially suitable for a young person wanting to develop their confidence.