Denis Law Legacy Trust and IPS Aberdeen Strengthen Pathways into Apprenticeships for Six Young People

Denis Law Legacy Trust is pleased to highlight the continued development of its partnership with IPS Aberdeen, following the successful completion of a programme designed to support young people into apprenticeship pathways within the fabrication industry.

Now in its second year, the programme is building on momentum, with 20 young people from across Aberdeen engaging in structured, employer-led activity delivered by Denis Law’s Academy. As one of the Trust’s key programmes, the Academy supports young people through personal, professional and wellbeing development opportunities, helping to shape their aspirations and prepare them for apprenticeships.

All participants successfully passed aptitude tests, demonstrating their readiness for future opportunities and the effectiveness of the tailored support provided. Six candidates, all under 18 years, each secured an apprenticeship with IPS Aberdeen, highlighting how such opportunities can open doors and create meaningful pathways for young people.

Participants came from a wide range of backgrounds and local communities, reflecting the Trust’s commitment to inclusive access to opportunity. Rhys Jones, Community Coordinator at Denis Law’s Academy, worked closely with secondary schools including Lochside Academy, Harlaw Academy, St Machar Academy, Bucksburn Academy and Dyce Academy to strengthen school-to-industry pathways and identify young people interested in vocational and technical careers.

Rhys Jones said: “This year marks the second year of our partnership with IPS to bring apprenticeship opportunities to young people across Aberdeen. IPS have once again demonstrated their commitment to providing real-world opportunities, alongside our shared passion to support young people into positive destinations. With further collaboration through NESCol, we are confident this partnership will continue to grow.”

Bob Steel, Director of IPS Aberdeen, said: “At IPS, we are passionate about apprenticeships and supporting young people in developing their careers. Over the past two years, DLLT’s partnership has been instrumental in helping us attract high-calibre candidates, and we look forward to building on this success.”

This year, the Academy’s programme was further enhanced through the introduction of CV development sessions, helping participants better articulate their skills and experience. In addition, a stronger focus on wraparound support ensured that those who were unsuccessful at later stages received one-to-one guidance on alternative pathways, helping to prevent disengagement.

The Academy has also strengthened collaboration between schools, employers, and education partners, including North East Scotland College (NESCol), ensuring clear links between learning pathways and industry needs. IPS Aberdeen played a key role in exposing young people to real working environments and the practical realities of apprenticeships within fabrication.

Building on this success, Denis Law’s Academy aims to expand its apprenticeship-focused model, working with more employers and partners to create accessible pathways into skilled careers for young people across Aberdeen.

If you would like to know more about Denis Law’s Academy please contact:

Hannah Clews h.c.clews2@rgu.ac.uk