Careers support inspires Logan to set his sights on a future in health and social care
Support from a Skills Development Scotland careers adviser has helped Dumfries teen identify his strengths and tap into his passion for helping others
When Logan McQueen was in secondary school he lacked confidence and was unsure what he wanted to do - but ongoing support from a Skills Development Scotland (SDS) careers adviser has helped him identify his strengths, tap into his passion for helping others - and secure a place at college.
The Health & Social Care student, 18, first spoke to SDS careers adviser Jane Paterson when he was choosing his options during his third year at North West Community Campus in Lochside, Dumfries and Galloway.
Together they explored the different pathways that were open to Logan and discussed how the experience of helping his gran with everyday tasks had sparked a desire to work with older people.
Logan successfully completed Nat 4 qualifications in Maths, English, Modern Studies, Childcare, Music, Practical Cookery, Music, Administration and Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies.
Jane then helped him arrange a placement at Langlands; a school for young people with severe and complex additional support needs that is part of the same Community Campus as his school; in lieu of S4 study leave.
Logan worked across different age groups, gaining practical experience through activities such as reading stories and playing games with pupils and assisting with trips to a local cafe.
The placement boosted his confidence, helped him develop new skills and broadened his career aspirations beyond becoming a support worker to include working with children and young people with disabilities.
Logan, of Dumfries, explained: “When I first met with Jane I felt really nervous and had no idea what I wanted to do. She helped me explore different ideas and places that I could approach for work experience.
“I’ve always been passionate about caring for others so I knew that might be something I would want to do in my future.
“Helping to support young people with different needs and getting used to being in a work environment improved my organisational skills and showed me that there were different areas of care that I could work in.
“Talking to staff helped me feel more confident too.”
Logan’s dedication and enthusiasm led to him being offered the chance to undertake a further placement at the school as he worked towards his Skills for Work: Health Sector SCQF level 5 qualification during S5.
Through regular careers appointments with Jane and additional NHS work experience placements at home care provider Bespoke Support and Lochfield Care Centre, Logan continued to reflect on his progress, build his confidence, and expand his networks.
At Bespoke Support, he shadowed staff as they helped older people with things like medication, shopping and cooking before giving a presentation at the end of his placement.
Logan explained: “It gave me an insight into the different ways you can support older people and help them to live with dignity.”
During S5 and S6 he successfully completed a Foundation Apprenticeship in Hospitality, as well as earning his Volunteering Skills Qualification. His kindness, hard work and willingness to support others was recognised when he was presented with the Headteacher’s Award at school.
Jane’s support has not only helped Logan progress on his career pathway, it has also helped him to become a confident, proactive young person who embraces new challenges and opportunities outside of school too.
The keen drummer has pursued his passion for music, performing at YouthBeatz Oasis, the UK’s largest free youth music festival, and joined Dumfries Town Band.
He also took part in the annual summer festival Guid Nychburris, escorting the Provost to a string of receptions and events around the town.
Logan has progressed on to secure a place at Dumfries and Galloway College, where he is currently studying Health and Social Care.
He said: “Before there were lots of things I wouldn’t do out of school because I was nervous about meeting new people but the placements showed me what I was capable of and gave me the confidence to go for it.”
Jane added: “It has been lovely to see Logan grow in self-confidence, expand his horizons and achieve success. The work placements helped him develop strong networks and progress on to college.
“He has achieved so much and I am very proud of how well he is doing.”
She added: “As a careers adviser for SDS I help young people consider the options that might be open to them so that they can reach their full potential.
"For some young people, the focus is on exploring how their qualifications can open up a range of opportunities. For others, it is about recognising their individual strengths, interests and personality, and identifying valuable opportunities to develop skills and gain experience through placements and work experience."
The support given to Logan by Jane is part of the free expert advice from SDS available to anyone looking for help to make learning and career decisions.