Dundee & Angus College Celebrates Dundee's Growth in Youth Engagement

Dundee & Angus College has welcomed the news that Dundee has achieved the highest increase in 16–19 year olds engaging in education, employment, or training in Scotland.

The latest data from Skills Development Scotland has revealed that Dundee has achieved a significant increase in the national Annual Participation measure of local 16-19 year olds in education, employment, or training over the past year. Last year 92.4% of Dundee school leavers were I a positive post school destination nine months after leaving school. In the last four years there has been an increase in pupils remaining in a positive destination with a rise of 0.8% in the last year alone.

This impressive rise highlights the effectiveness of the collective efforts of local institutions, such as Dundee & Angus College, Dundee City Council, and other key partners through the Dundee Partnership who work to support and create opportunities for young people across the city.

Simon Hewitt, Chair of Discover Work and Principal of Dundee & Angus College said: "At Dundee & Angus College, we are proud to be part of the collaborative effort that has led to a significant increase in the number of young people in Dundee participating in education, employment or training in the last year.

“This achievement is a testament to the strength of our partnership with Skills Development Scotland, Dundee City Council, and other key stakeholders. By working together, we are not only identifying the unique needs of each young person but also providing them with the tailored support and opportunities they need to thrive."

The college has been at the forefront of several initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between education and employment, helping young people gain the skills and confidence required to secure a positive destination on leaving school. Through strategic partnerships with local authorities, businesses, and community organisations, Dundee & Angus College continues to foster an environment where young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in today’s job market.

Last year 92.4% of Dundee school leavers were in a positive post school destination nine months after leaving school, the majority in education, work or training.

The increasing number of pupils in Dundee sustaining positive destinations goes against the national picture, with the number of pupils across Scotland in positive destinations slightly declining.

Figures show that following several improvements made in the past year a growing number of pupils from the least deprived areas of the city are remaining in positive destinations.

The gap between those in the most and least deprived areas of the city moving into a positive destination is decreasing at a faster rate than the Scottish average.

Dundee & Angus College’s active role in supporting this city-wide progress highlights its dedication to enhancing youth employability and educational attainment.

The College offers a wide range of programs, from vocational training to higher education, that cater for diverse learner needs. These programs are continuously updated in line with local and national employment trends to ensure they remain relevant and valuable.

Dundee & Angus College remains committed to playing a pivotal role in the region's growth by continuing to provide quality education and training opportunities.

As Dundee continues to see positive developments, the College's focus remains on ensuring every young person has the opportunity to achieve their full potential and secure a promising future.