Project Description

Industry: Hospitality and Fitness 
Partner Programme: Career Ready 
Activity Type: Work Experience 
Businesses involved: Old Course Hotel and Fife Leisure Trust 
Name of School: Madras College  

Madras College has successfully supported a number of pupils in undertaking work experience placements throughout the academic year, with many of these opportunities leading to long-term benefits for the young people involved. These placements have provided invaluable hands-on experience, allowing pupils to develop practical, work-based skills and gain insight into various career pathways.  

The initiative, in collaboration with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Fife, was designed to strengthen school-employer partnerships and support young people in making informed choices about their futures. Some pupils have not only gained experience but have also been offered part-time and even full-time positions as a result of their excellent contributions during their placements. 

Partnerships and Employer Engagement: 

A range of employers across the hospitality, leisure, and childcare sectors partnered with the school to support pupils in real work environments. These businesses recognize the mutual value in engaging with local young people, helping to build a skilled future workforce while also identifying potential new team members. 

The Old Course Hotel, a renowned five-star establishment in St Andrews, participated through the Career Ready programme. They mentored S6 pupil Max, who spent several weeks rotating through different departments to gain a broad understanding of hospitality roles. Impressed with his commitment, the hotel offered Max a part-time position following his placement. 

Fife Leisure Trust and East Sands Leisure Centre welcomed S6 pupil Sophie back for a second year of work experience. Her goal was to explore lifeguarding and administrative roles. Through her proactive attitude and engagement, she was offered a part-time role as a receptionist. 

Anstruther Primary School and Nursery hosted Lewis, an S6 pupil with a passion for early years education. His time supporting practitioners in the nursery confirmed his career aspirations, and he has since secured a full-time trainee practitioner post at another nursery starting in the summer. 

Impact and Outcomes: 

These placements proved incredibly valuable, not just for skill development, but for helping young people identify their strengths, interests, and career paths. The opportunity to experience working life firsthand allowed pupils to make meaningful connections and showcase their potential to future employers. 

Pupil Reflections: 

Lewis – Nursery Placement at Anstruther Primary School 

“At my placement in the nursery, I helped look after the children and supported their learning through play. I gained experience, met new people, and realised this is what I want to do. Thanks to my placement, I now have a job lined up as a trainee practitioner starting in June after exams.” 

Sophie – Fife Leisure Trust, East Sands Leisure Centre 

“My work experience at East Sands Leisure Centre was great. I worked alongside lifeguards, the duty manager, and the receptionist. It gave me insight into what goes on behind the scenes. The team offered me a part-time job as a receptionist because they felt I’d thrive in the environment. I had fun and learned so much.” 

Conclusion: 

This year’s work experience placements have clearly demonstrated the power of real-world learning and strong school-employer partnerships. Through support from DYW Fife and local businesses, Madras College pupils have not only developed essential workplace skills but, in several cases, have secured employment that aligns with their future goals.