Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026 - UHI Perth and Perth and Kinross Council
Scottish Apprenticeship Week runs from 2 to 6 March 2026 and celebrates how apprenticeships benefit individuals, employers, and the wider economy.
This week, we shine a spotlight on the power of apprenticeships to create careers, build businesses, strengthen the workforce and generate real returns for the economy.
90% of employers in Scotland report that apprenticeships significantly improve job performance within their company. At UHI Perth, we work closely with a range of different employers throughout Perth and Kinross to help develop the workforce.
We caught up with one of them to learn more about how our partnership works.
Can you introduce yourself?
Linda Reid, Early Years Coordinator with Perth and Kinross Council (PKC). I have 26 years’ experience of working in Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) and my passion and commitment have always been putting the child at the centre and at the heart of my practices to ensure we get it right for them and their families. Ensuring high-quality practices and building capacity to support continuous improvements is pivotal to my role.
What Apprenticeships are available within your business?
PKC offer a wide range of roles and opportunities for various apprenticeships within services. In ELC, apprenticeships give young people the opportunity to develop skills and experience in a real setting, gain a qualification, and earn a wage while working in practice. This supports the development of our future workforce and helps us train new staff effectively.
Can you tell us a bit about Perth and Kinross Council?
The Education and Learning department at PKC is based within 2 High Street, Perth. We provide a vast amount of information on childcare, family support, community learning and development, nurseries and preschool education and schools. This involves many areas of support for children and families. My role within the early years central team is to drive forward continuous improvements and support all our ELC settings and childminders to provide high-quality experiences for all children and families.
Why are apprenticeships important for Perth and Kinross Council to offer?
Modern Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to enhance Scotland’s work-based learning system and reduce youth employment.
What progression routes are available to apprentices once they have completed?
In ELC, we ringfence vacancies suitable for our Modern Apprentices. They apply and attend an interview for the role. We can also offer alternative roles should they require more practical experience to build on their skills and knowledge.
How has the partnership with UHI Perth worked?
We have established strong relationships and effective communication channels. There are clear induction processes for our apprentices before they start their learning journey.
What support did UHI Perth provide, and how did this complement workplace support?
All of our ELC apprentices were supported very well by their appointed assessor. She provided additional support where necessary and would conduct extra discussions or meetings with the apprentices to support them to succeed. PKC also meet with the apprentices to complete progress reviews, alongside their mentors. Our mentors consistently go above and beyond to support them.
Did the apprentices complete any additional training or online learning to enhance their learning?
Yes. All PKC apprentices complete our mandatory induction training online. They also undertake recommended face‑to‑face training through our learning hub and attend connection events as part of their wider development.
Anything else you would like to share about your experience?
Already having good relationships with UHI Perth has supported the process. Regular progress reports have helped us ensure our apprentices receive the support they need to succeed.
And finally, what advice would you give to anyone thinking about doing a Modern Apprenticeship?
Whether you are still at school, a recent leaver, in higher education or already graduated, PKC offer a wide range of roles in many areas. Working as a Modern Apprentice with PKC, you’ll ‘earn while you learn’, and have opportunities to get involved with community events and volunteering activities, broadening your skills and knowledge. There are opportunities for progression within a large, fast-moving organisation.
