Three young East Ayrshire pupils have landed a work placement opportunity which will help them gain experience in the world of building and design.

Sixth year Auchinleck Academy pupils Jenna Lau, Melissa McPartland and Duncan Wyllie had been developing their interest in the world of design by mentoring younger pupils in East Ayrshire Council’s Interaction project.

They had been taking part in a mentoring workshop in the Mackintosh School of Architecture at Glasgow School of Art (GSA).

Architect David Ross of Keppie Design got involved when he learned the three youngsters had applied to study architecture at GSA next year.


Mr Keppie then offered the pupils work placements with his firm in January. They will work on design briefs and present their outcomes at Keppie.

David Ross said: "Jenna, Duncan and Melissa really stood out as being so enthusiastic about art and architecture. I think the hands-on experience in a professional working environment will stand them in good stead when their applications are being considered by GSA."

Hanneke Scott van-Wel, who led the GSA workshop, said: "I met the Auchinleck students at our mentoring session, an excellent day. They learned about how they can guide and help younger S3 pupils taking part in the Interaction project, which is an intensive design process."

Councillor Stephanie Primrose, Spokesperson for Lifelong Learning, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for these young people to enjoy work experience at the highest level.

"In East Ayrshire, we are fortunate in having business leaders such as David Ross backing our BEF programme, which is helping pupils to develop skills and attitudes to make them ready for the world of work."

(IT)