Across three of our Big Noise programmes, eight young people spent have spent 4 weeks working as part of our staff teams, helping to run summer holiday clubs for younger participants.
Interns at Big Noise Raploch, Big Noise Govanhill, and Big Noise Torry spent the summer gaining work experience by carrying out a range of administration tasks, helping out in musical lessons, and supervising lunchtimes.
As part of our staff teams, they also took part in a range of fun activities and games that run throughout holiday club, which helped them form relationships with participants.
Now in it's second year, our Summer Internship programme supports interns to boost their skills and confidence, giving them vital workplace experience before moving on from Big Noise.
Throughout the year we also offer our oldest members CV writing workshops, support with applications for university and college courses, as well as Modern Apprenticeships.
Andrew, 17, who will be going on to study software engineering at university after the summer, took part in the internship programme at Big Noise Raploch. He said:
“I’ve been part of Big Noise for a long time, from Primary 6 all the way to the end of S6.
“I’ve got a lot out of Big Noise, lots of different skills and experiences, so it’s nice to give something back.
“It’s such a big change going from being a participant to now being part of the staff team, but that’s really nice. I really feel part of the staff, and they treat me just like an equal.
“My favourite part about the internship has been talking to the younger kids and getting to know them. I’ve never worked with kids before – so it’s been great getting that experience and learning some teamwork skills.
“Being part of the staff team here really feels like it prepares you for the next level of education and going out into the real world.”
Dominika, 18, who is going to college to study criminology and law, also took part in the internship programme at Big Noise Raploch. She said:
“When I was growing up I always wanted to work with kids in some way, so I think the internship has been a good opportunity to help me with that.
"I’ve never really worked with kids before, but once we got into our groups and got used to chatting to them I’m really confident and comfortable with that now.
“I’ve got a lot out of working here in general, and have gained a lot of different experiences that will help with a lot of things in the future. My confidence has grown over the past few weeks, and I’ve really enjoyed leading some lessons and working on my teamwork skills.
“It’s been a really good experience – and I think I’ve learned a lot of different skills being here that I can put on my CV in the future.”
Sistema Scotland’s Chief Executive, Vicky Williams, said:
“We are delighted to have been able to welcome some of our participants into our Big Noise teams this summer as part of our Summer Internship programme.
“Our young interns have been an amazing addition to our staff teams across the country - and they have helped our summer clubs run smoothly and have ensured that all of our young people have had a fun and safe place to spent the holidays.
“We hope that the skills and experience that our young people have gained over the summer will help them as they prepare for life after Big Noise, wherever they may go!”
