30-04-2025
Glasgow apprentices hail sport programme as "life-changing"
The Physical Education, Physical Activity and School Sport (PEPASS) team, which includes the city's active schools coordinators, has been running a Modern Apprenticeship programme for six years.
Elise McKee, a former pupil of St Andrew's Secondary in Carntyne, said: 'I love dancing and gymnastics when I was really young, but it was our active schools co-ordinator Julie who really inspired me to think about sport as a career.
'The Modern Apprenticeship has been life-changing and given me a clear pathway into what I want to do. I'm now going to do an HND in sport coaching and development at college and hopefully eventually become an active schools co-ordinator myself.'
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Elise's leadership in dance and gymnastics has helped encourage many younger girls to take part in major events.
Jack McBride, who attended Castlemilk High, has had a huge impact on confidence and participation in Additional Support Needs schools.
He said: 'I didn't know what I wanted to do when I left school, but the Modern Apprenticeship has been brilliant, I really love it.'
Jack, who is care experienced and has kinship care for his younger brother, added: 'Taking classes in boccia for pupils with additional support needs has been my favourite aspect of the whole programme, and I have learned a lot.'
The two apprentices spoke about their experiences at Glasgow City Council's recent education committee meeting.
Councillor Christina Cannon, Glasgow City Council's education convener said: 'It was brilliant to hear from Elise and Jack about all the opportunities they have experienced during their apprenticeship.
'They were so confident about the difference it has made in their lives and how it has given them the skills to apply for courses and the next stage of their career.'
Applications for this year's PEPASS Modern Apprenticeship programme are open until May 25.
