Discover! Creative Careers Scotland - opening doors to creative futures
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Scotland’s creative industries are thriving. From film and television to gaming, design, music and animation, the sector plays a huge part in the country’s culture and economy.
But a lot of young people still don’t realise just how many different career paths exist, or how the skills they’re already learning in school could take them there.
Discover! Creative Careers Scotland is helping to change that. The free, nationwide programme connects young people aged 11-18 with employers across Scotland’s creative industries through practical experiences, workshops and live events. Delivered by Into Film, in partnership with ScreenSkills and Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), it gives educators simple, effective ways to bring the industry into their classrooms.
The programme is already making a difference right across Scotland with schools taking part in creative workshops and industry encounters that show what goes on behind the scenes - from design and digital to gaming, film and music.
Teachers are using these experiences to make stronger links between school subjects and real jobs. Lessons in English, Business Studies, Computing and Art have become opportunities to explore creative roles - from writing and marketing to design, editing and production management.
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Engaged and confident students
The feedback so far has been brilliant. Teachers say students are more engaged, more confident, and able to see where their creative interests could lead. Tracy Graham, Teacher, Firrhill High School commented,
“Working with partners in industry is an essential part of educating young people and helping them to realise how the skills and values they are developing at school articulate with the modern workplace. We are excited to explore next steps in developing the partnership further. “
Employers have also embraced the opportunity to get involved. Opening their doors to schools has helped them show the range of jobs available - from traditional crafts and performance to digital innovation. For many, it’s been a chance to meet young people who might one day be part of their own industry, and to play a role in helping them get there.
It’s all part of a UK-wide initiative designed to inspire the next generation of creative professionals. By linking classroom learning with real-world experience, it shows that creative careers aren’t just a nice-to-have, but an important and sustainable part of Scotland’s economy.
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Teachers can register for free and access the Opportunity Finder - an online hub listing creative careers events, resources and experiences happening across Scotland. Employers can also get involved, whether by running a workshop, hosting a visit or offering a short session for students. Even a small contribution can make a big difference.
Discover! Creative Careers Scotland is helping young people see that creativity isn’t just something to study - it’s something to build a future on.
Find out more and get involved at: discovercreative.careers/teachers-career-leaders/discover-creative-careers-week-scotland
Delivered by Into Film, in partnership with ScreenSkills and Developing the Young Workforce (DYW). Funded by the UK Government.