A new mentoring programme has been launched at two Moray secondary schools to cancel out education inequality in the region.
The initiative at Elgin High School and Buckie High School has been created to support youngsters with experience of care to help them prepare for the next steps in their lives.
It is hoped that the Mentoring Young Talent programme will help students gain skills and qualifications to help them once they have left school.
Scottish Government figures from last year showed just 5% of looked-after children in Moray left school with a higher qualification – compared to 59% of their classmates.
Mentors are now being sought at both schools who are employed and can offer insights into their working days and provide support for one hour a week to help address the difference.
Sean Duffy, depute head teacher at Buckie High School, hopes the process can be transformative for both the children and adults taking part.
He said: “We are looking for mentors who can help bring out the talent and ability in our pupils.
“Our pupils will benefit from having a positive role model to learn from, someone who believes in them and cheers them on.”
Lesley Prendergast, development officer at charity Who Cares? Scotland, said: “This is an amazing opportunity for our young people to get one to one support, encouragement and guidance. I think it will be hugely impactful and positive.”
Those interested in taking part should e-mail programme coordinator Christine Fairbairn at christine.fairbairn@moray.gov.uk
