The partnership, which will run for three years, aims to strengthen the existing relationship between the university and Kibble, and will focus on three key strategic themes, including supportive interventions for positive youth development, innovative and creative learning in primary and secondary education, and developing an enterprising and socially responsible workforce.
UWS and Kibble have already worked together on a variety of initiatives, including conducting research and collaborating on Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.
The new strategic partnership will formalise the relationship and enable the two organisations to work more extensively on projects, with the common aim of leading research, change, progress and policy review in supporting at-risk young people.
Professor Craig Mahoney, UWS principal and vice-chancellor, said: “UWS prides itself on ensuring our students are ‘work-ready’ by forming links with local organisations and businesses.
“This partnership is an excellent way to further develop these relationships and give our students seeking a career in care or education vital, first-hand experience.
“UWS’ purpose is to change lives and transform communities through higher education and I see our partnership with Kibble as not only giving back and supporting such an important and worthy charity, but ensuring our students are well-rounded and informed individuals as they approach the world of work.
“The impact of Kibble’s work on improving the educational experience and outcomes of at-risk young people cannot be underestimated, and the organisation’s strategic goals resonate with our own.”
Jim Gillespie, Kibble Group chief executive, said: “We have already established a positive working relationship with UWS on research and development, helping to improve the educational outcomes of young people in our care.
“This new partnership will see us collaborate further in exciting and innovative ways, meaning in the long term, we can continue to improve the quality of the services that we deliver.
“Kibble is one of Scotland’s oldest children charities and the young people are at the heart of everything we do as an organisation. By working in new ways with partners such as UWS, we will help every young person in our care achieve their potential.”
“One of the ways we can benefit from this partnership is identifying people who are seeking a career in caring for young people, and ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge to make this a reality.”
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