Kibble apprentices lay groundwork for St Mirren’s season

The inspiring work of young people at Kibble’s Skills Academy have laid the foundations for St Mirren to have a successful season.

Kibble is a leading, specialist child and youth care charity and social enterprise that supports at-risk children and young people (age 5+) across the UK.

The charity has an innovative partnership with St Mirren Football Club, combining the youth-centred, educational and commercial expertise of Kibble, with St. Mirren’s first-class sporting facilities and national profile. Kibble became a major shareholder and part-owner in the club to give care-experienced young people career-building opportunities in an exhilarating real-life setting with the overall aim of strengthening youth employment.

Many of the young people at Kibble have experienced significant trauma in their lives and the charity offers dedicated care and support to help them move forward, including residential and community support, as well as dedicated schools and wellbeing services.

Kibble’s Skills Academy plays a leading role in motivating young people to shape a brighter future for themselves. Ahead of World Youth Skills Day, students gained real-life apprenticeship experience by renovating the floors of the Premiership side’s first team changing room and gym, which has been praised by the Buddies manager.

St Mirren Manager, Stephen Robinson, said: “The recent construction projects completed by the Skills Academy students and trainers have been of an exceptionally high standard.

“It is clear to see the young learners are extremely motivated to understand the requirements of each development. They have followed through with close attention to detail. We are very happy with the transformation made so far.”

The Kibble Skills Academy is an education and training centre were young people gain qualifications and practical skills to strengthen employability prospects and help them to develop a fulfilling career.

With locations in Hillington as well as St Mirren’s SMISA Stadium and Training Complex, current young apprentices have been a key support in maintaining St Mirren’s stadium and training ground. All work has been in line with stringent health and safety standards and in sync with the busy football pre-season and strict training schedule.

Kibble chief executive, Jim Gillespie, said: “We partnered with St Mirren to be able to offer young people the opportunity to develop their skillset and gain valuable qualifications while learning in a real-life business setting.

“To see students enthusiastically want to be involved with real project developments and give thought into their career prospects and plan for the future is extremely motivating. The work of Kibble makes a huge difference to the lives of young people and we will continue to grow and achieve our vision of giving young people a chance at life.”

For more information, or to learn more about Kibble, please visit www.kibble.org.