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Craft Your Career is a pre-apprenticeship programme developed by Fife Council’s Employability Service and Training & Development Team, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and Fife College. The initiative supports young people aged 16–21 to gain practical experience and qualifications in traditional trades such as stonemasonry, joinery, and roofing.
The programme was created in response to two key challenges: youth unemployment and the growing skills gap in heritage and construction sectors. It offers a structured pathway into employment, combining college-based learning, hands-on work experience, and employability training.
Participants attend Fife College one day a week to complete a Construction, Craft and Technician Level 4 qualification. They spend three days with local employers gaining real-world experience, and one day developing job search skills, confidence, and personal development.
Participants also complete industry-recognised training in areas such as health and safety, manual handling, and working at heights. Site visits and team-building activities further enrich the experience, helping young people build resilience and adaptability.
From the first two cohorts (24 participants), 17 progressed directly into employment or apprenticeships, while the remaining 7 are continuing to receive support to secure sustainable work. A third cohort of 12 is currently underway.
All participants were previously unemployed, and all successfully completed the programme. The combination of practical training, personal development, and tailored support has proven effective in helping young people take their first steps into meaningful employment.
As Fife continues to see positive momentum in local employment and economic activity, Craft Your Career plays a key role in ensuring that growth is inclusive and sustainable. It supports the Plan for Fife priorities of Community Wealth Building and Tackling Poverty, while also helping to preserve traditional skills that are vital to the region’s heritage and economy.
The programme has been shortlisted for a Fife Business Award 2025, recognising its impact on youth employment and local workforce development. The team is now exploring funding options to continue and expand the programme, ensuring more young people can benefit from this opportunity.
