School Leavers: What’s Next? Your Guide to the Pathways Program

Supporting Winter School Leavers on their path to success

February marks an important time of year for many young people across North Lanarkshire. For some, it signals a fresh start as they leave school midway through the academic year and begin thinking seriously about their next steps. At Routes to Work, we are proud to support

These “winter leavers” are helped through our Pathways Programme, helping them build confidence, gain qualifications and move towards a positive destination in work, further education or training.

What is the Pathways Programme?

Delivered on behalf of Education, our Pathways Programme is specifically designed for young people who are winter and summer school leavers. We understand that leaving school can feel daunting, particularly when peers remain in school. That’s why our programme focuses on equipping young people with the employability skills, knowledge and support they need to take their next steps with confidence.

Working collaboratively with North Lanarkshire Council, New College Lanarkshire and local employers, we deliver this programme across two sites in Wishaw and Cumbernauld. Together, we ensure that young people receive consistent, high-quality support tailored to their individual aspirations and circumstances.

A Focus on Winter Leavers

While we support both winter and summer school leavers, winter leavers often require additional reassurance and structure as they transition earlier than their peers. Some may be at greater risk of leaving school without a positive destination, and our priority is to ensure that does not happen.

Through early engagement with high schools across North Lanarkshire, our Training Team works with pupils before they leave school. We help them explore career options, understand the realities of the workplace and begin preparing for employment or further study.

A key part of our support includes:

• Building knowledge of employment sectors

• Developing high-quality CVs

• Practising interview skills

• Increasing understanding of workplace expectations

• Strengthening wellbeing and self-belief

By identifying aspirations early and providing targeted one-to-one support, we help young people successfully complete work placements and progress into sustainable opportunities.

Gaining Recognised Qualifications

Qualifications can be a powerful confidence booster, especially for young people who may not have thrived in a traditional school environment. Through the Pathways Programme, participants have the opportunity to gain a range of industry-recognised qualifications that enhance their CVs and prepare them for the world of work.

These include:

Qualifications Scotland Employability Award (QS)

This award helps young people develop essential workplace skills, from communication and teamwork to problem-solving and time management.

REHIS Elementary Health & Safety (CSCS Card Compliant)

This qualification teaches participants how to work safely and protect others in any industry. Being CSCS card compliant is particularly valuable for those interested in construction and related sectors.

REHIS First Aid

Providing vital knowledge on how to preserve life, promote recovery and support wellbeing, this course builds both practical skills and personal confidence.

WorldHost – The Principles of Customer Service

Designed to support all service sectors, this qualification helps young people understand and apply excellent customer service skills—an asset in industries such as retail, hospitality and tourism.

By gaining these qualifications, winter leavers leave our programme not only more confident, but also more competitive in the job market.

Building Confidence and Wellbeing

At Routes to Work, we know that employability is about more than just skills and qualifications. Confidence, resilience and wellbeing are equally important.

Many early school leavers may have faced challenges during their time at school. Our supportive, person-centred approach ensures that every young person feels heard, valued and capable of success. Through wellbeing sessions and consistent mentoring, we help participants build the self-belief they need to step into interviews, workplaces and classrooms with a positive mindset.

Working in Partnership for Positive Destinations

Our collaborative approach is central to the success of the Pathways Programme. By working in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council, New College Lanarkshire and local employers, we create clear and realistic progression routes for young people.

Whether it’s moving into a college course, starting an apprenticeship, securing employment or completing a meaningful work placement, our goal is always the same: to help every young person achieve a positive and sustainable destination.

Looking Ahead

For winter school leavers, February can represent a turning point—a time of transition, possibility and new beginnings. With the right support, guidance and opportunities, leaving school early does not limit potential. Instead, it can be the first step towards discovering strengths, building new skills and forging a fulfilling career path.

At Routes to Work, we are committed to ensuring that no young person in North Lanarkshire is left behind. Through our Pathways Programme and dedicated Training Team, we continue to empower winter leavers to realise their ambitions and take confident steps towards a brighter future.

Together, we can help young people turn potential into progress.

If you would like to learn more about our Pathways Programme or the support available through our Community Learning and Employability Hubs, get in touch with Routes to Work today by calling 0800 783 4731