Tay Skills Academy is a first for Scotland

The Tay Skills Academy at Rossie Young People’s Trust near Montrose will operate in partnership with Dundee and Angus College, providing vocational skills training for its community of young people and increasing their chances of finding and sustaining employment.

The on-site skills and training centre is the first of its kind in Scotland. Offering practical training in everything from plumbing and painting to joinery and IT, the skills-first facility will complement the existing Rossie school, which provides bespoke education programmes and qualifications. Through hands-on activities, young people will also strengthen their core skills in areas such as maths and English.

With a history spanning over 160 years, Rossie provides bespoke education, specialist support and welfare services for children and young people up to age 18. Set amongst 150 acres of mature grounds and woodlands between Arbroath and Montrose, Rossie offers both residential and secure accommodation, supported by over 200 highly skilled staff.

Supported by skills coaches employed by Dundee and Angus College, the on-site provision will enable small-group skills development within Rossie’s supportive and therapeutic environment. Young people will have the opportunity to achieve SCQF Levels 3–5 qualifications, or standalone units for those with shorter stays. The facility will also provide clear progression pathways, supporting young people as they advance through life. Core skills will be integrated into practical training, including communication, numeracy, health and safety, and teamwork, to ensure young people are well prepared for life beyond Rossie.

The academy also houses a fully functioning kitchen to teach independent living skills and office spaces for staff.

Today, Lee Lapin, Director of Curriculum and Partnerships and Laura Louch, Curriculum Project Leader at Dundee and Angus College, joined Kevin Northcott, Chief Executive Officer of Rossie Young People’s Trust, to celebrate the opening.

Mr Northcott said, “Today marks a major milestone for children and young people in care, who deserve every opportunity to develop their skills, confidence and pathways into adulthood and life beyond care.

“Rossie is home to a community of young people, many of whom have experienced multiple adverse childhood experiences, resulting in complex needs and vulnerabilities. These experiences can often affect their engagement with education, meaning learning must be delivered in a way that recognises and responds to their individual needs.

“Importantly, The Tay Skills Academy has been shaped with our young people at its heart. They have helped influence not only its name, but also its look, feel and the kind of environment they want it to be. It is designed to be a place that works for them, a welcoming and inclusive space where they can learn new skills, overcome obstacles, solve problems and discover what they are capable of achieving.”

Mrs Lappin commented, “We’re delighted to be part of the Tay Skills Academy and to bring our skills, expertise and experience into Rossie’s supportive environment.”