Lanarkshire learning hub links local support for vocational education and life skills
Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) services in North Lanarkshire have been given a boost thanks to a new learning hub launched by the local council.
SDS is one of the partners given access to The Bungalow, which is designed to support young people from across the area with vocational education and life skills.
Based at the Our Lady’s High School Campus in Motherwell, the facility is a repurposed former janitor’s house, now transformed into a dedicated space offering practical learning experiences, industry-recognised qualifications, and tailored support for young people, particularly those with additional support needs or facing barriers to education and employment.
The hub includes a bedroom, kitchen, living area, sensory room, ICT suite, and a garden for horticulture-based learning.
SDS provides free, all age Career Information Advice and Guidance, with Career Advisers supporting pupils in all secondary schools across North Lanarkshire and based in a range of community spaces.
Both pupils and post school customers can access SDS services at the hub, which will also be used by a wide range of council services and partners including NHS Lanarkshire, New College Lanarkshire and Barnardo’s.
SDS CIAG Team Leader David Muir explained the benefits the hub brings to SDS services and the community to Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal when she formally opened the facility in April.
David said: “The Bungalow is a fantastic facility to be a part of. While SDS will still deliver in the school and other community locations, the hub will be a really beneficial addition.
“The facility makes vocational learning and support more accessible for young people, especially those who need it the most, and gives them a space to build skills and confidence in a practical setting rather than a traditional classroom base.
“For SDS, it will help to build stronger links with partner services, ensuring that careers guidance is integrated in vocational education.”
Speaking about his meeting with The Princess Royal, David said: “The Princess was very interested in the work SDS does to support young people to explore their career options and choices and was positive about the new hub. We discussed how spaces like the hub can bring real life context to vocational education.”
Barry Smedley, Chief Officer of Education, said: “This space represents more than just bricks and mortar - it’s a vital part of our shared commitment to empowering young people. It’s a small building with a big purpose, and a proud step forward in our goal of ensuring that all our young people have the skills, qualifications and experiences to face the fast-changing world of work.
“It is a fantastic example of how we can work together across services to create opportunities for young people who need extra support. It’s about giving them the confidence and tools to succeed in life.”
The development was made possible through UK Shared Prosperity Funding and will operate as a seven-day-a-week resource, offering extended support to care-experienced young people and others in the community.
As Our Lady’s High School celebrates its 150th anniversary, the opening of The Bungalow marks a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to inclusive education and community support.