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Posted: March 28, 2025

Meet Kibble Cook, Jonathan who recommends our staff benefit of child care savings at Puddle Lane children’s nursery in Hillington. Jonathan tells us how much his daughter, Lucy enjoys going to nursery and shares why he plans to continue his career at Kibble.

Brachiosaurus, Velociraptor and Stegosaurus are three dinosaur species that two-year-old Lucy can pronounce. Mango korma, vegetarian chilli and spaghetti Bolognese are just three of the meals she can look forward to at lunchtime. Intelligent, sociable and curious are three words Lucy’s dad would use to describe her personality.

Jonathan shares how much Lucy enjoys going to Puddle Lane: “Lucy runs into nursery in the morning and can’t wait to see her friends and the nursery staff.”

“Lucy loves to learn and comes home with interesting facts and plenty of stories about her busy day. She can pronounce the different types of dinosaur species better than me and her mum – I have to remind myself she is only two-years-old because she is so clever.”

Jonathan explains he was immediately amazed by Puddle Lane on his first visit and when he met the nursery staff: “Puddle Lane has its own soft play, large garden area with Astro-Turf and plenty of activities in each playroom. We knew it was a place where kids would have great fun.”

“The team of staff are amazing and incredibly friendly. They’re great with all the children and I know Lucy is happy and safe with them.”

“The nursery is extremely convenient for us as I am glad to be close by to Lucy even when at work.”

Jonathan finds that the best part of Puddle Lane is all the fun learning experiences Lucy has: “Puddle Lane uploads photos on to their App each day for me and Lucy’s mum to see what she gets up to while at nursery – we love being able to get an insight into her day.”

“Lucy has planted her own sunflower seeds and often talks about gardening. Her favourite thing to do is follow a recipe and cook or bake.”

To have his daughter enjoy the same hobbies is fantastic to see: “As a Cook, I grow my own herbs and use them as fresh ingredients for recipes at home and I’m thrilled Lucy has an interest in the same hobbies I have – especially cooking as I have turned that one into a fulfilling career.”

Jonathan loves to cook and has a strong work ethic as he feels lucky to have turned his passion into his profession. He understands the importance of preparing healthy meals as a Cook and as parent himself.

Jonathan tells us more about his role as a Kibble Cook: “The reason I applied to Kibble was because I loved to cook and I still do. My job is to prepare meals for across the organisation including hospitality catering at St Mirren Football Club as well as the lunches served at Puddle Lane. I take my job very seriously and strive to prepare menus that are healthy, nutritious and varied.”

The meaningful work Kibble does has made Jonathan determined to continue his career here: “One day I would like to become a Cooking Instructor at Kibble and help young people who are interested in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry to gain the relevant SVQ qualifications.”

“I can relate to young people who may be worrying about the future and their job prospects but I believe I would be a good mentor and demonstrate what’s possible when you find something you enjoy and continue developing that talent.”

There is a shared purpose amongst everyone at Kibble: “I believe in what Kibble does and the aim of helping young people have a bright future.”

“Helping staff with child care is another way Kibble makes sure people feel included as our own families have been thought of. Kibble has taken their knowledge of helping children grow-up into creating a fantastic nursery where children can learn, play and be happy.”

Kibble opened Puddle Lane to increase access to high quality child care at an affordable cost for the staff team and families in the wider surrounding areas. Our intention was to demonstrate our value of belonging. We want to encourage inclusion amongst the workforce and build meaningful connections, showing staff we care about their home life too and want everyone to feel a valued.

Join Jonathan and Start Your Career at Kibble

If the values of Respect, Ambition and Belonging resonate with you, it’s time to begin a new career at Kibble. Discover jobs in Paisley, Glasgow and beyond with fantastic staff benefits and career development opportunities.

Why Work at Kibble?

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Meet Kibble’s Head of Education, Jackie, who encourages others to give 100% effort in any task they set their mind to. Ambition is an innate part of Jackie’s character and she leads by example as her varied career and personal hobbies show she isn’t afraid of a new challenge. Pupils and colleagues can learn from her in how to step out of their comfort zone and be open-minded to new experiences.

Jackie has decades of experience working in education across different teaching jobs and organisations including Education Scotland. Five years ago, she decided to continue her career at Kibble and joined us as a Deputy Headteacher before progressing to Kibble Head of Education.

The enthusiasm Jackie has for building genuine relationships with pupils and colleagues made her a great fit for our fun educational team. At Kibble, we are dedicated to making learning an enjoyable experience for young people, while maintaining a strong focus on improving academic performance and making sure pupils gain qualifications.

In her own personal time, Jackie’s hobby is mountain climbing. She sets the goal of reaching the peak before preparing mentally for tackling the physical feat and organising her clothing and equipment accordingly. Careful consideration and thoughtful planning go into the undertaking as she acknowledges she must plan ahead to overcome challenges and show resilience. The same mindset is applied to her leadership role. Jackie shows both pupils and colleagues the importance of goal-setting and taking the time to realise your ambition before giving it your best attempt. Only by taking a chance and striving towards your aspirations can you grow and fulfil potential.

Jackie’s adventurous side lets her wholeheartedly join in with any new learning experience. She enthusiastically leads by example, showing young learners challenges can be fun whether it is taking the time to get involved with the weekly Zumba class, being the first to volunteer to take part in the school panto or go sailing with the Ocean Youth Trust.

Jackie shares: “The pupils come first, and we have to adapt everything we know in a way that encourages them to want to learn. Yes, that means teachers taking part in the school panto is mandatory.”

Overall, Jackie believes in being yourself. Only by letting your personality shine and drawing from your own lived experiences can you form trusting connections and find dynamic and vibrant ways to spark an interest in learning.

Join Jackie and Start Your Career at Kibble

If you’re searching for teaching jobs or want to take the next step in your education career, find out more about working with us and how we strive to be an employer who values Respect, Ambition and Belonging.

Why Work at Kibble?

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Meet Kibble’s HR Manager, Karen, who strives to help create a supportive and welcoming workplace where the staff team feels listened to. Our values of Respect, Ambition and Belonging are carefully considered in Karen’s decision-making as she does her best to ensure the needs and wellbeing of employees are a priority. She knows that by supporting the workforce, Kibble can provide the best care for young people.

Karen has over 16 years’ experience in human resources and has continued to develop her career at Kibble. She now oversees the in-house team of HR professionals who support the organisation’s diverse staff team that involves a wide range of job roles across care, education, psychology, corporate services and more.

Job variety is one of the key benefits of starting a new job at Kibble. Due to the size and scale of Kibble and the fact our services help such a wide age range of 5 to 26-year-olds, each day is different. There are opportunities to change department, lead new services, and an internal Learning and Development team for you to gain further qualifications and complete specialised training. The diverse range of tasks enriches your work experience and keeps every day interesting. When you apply to work at Kibble, it is likely to be more than a new job; instead, you get a career with longevity and endless possibilities for career development.

The ambitious culture at Kibble exists because of careful planning. We make sure the driven workforce feels supported. Kibble’s overall way of working includes the component of a ‘Skilled and Supported Workforce’, which means all within the organisation understand employees are a priority, and as HR Manager, Karen ensures that processes exist for employees to be listened to. Those who work at Kibble and are dedicated to building a long-term, rewarding career must have the support necessary to accomplish their responsibilities to the best of their ability. Karen works closely with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to design a suitable staff benefits package that ensures employees are looked after in terms of their own health, wellbeing and personal development.

HR Manager, Karen confirms employees must feel valued and have a good work-life balance to be fuelled with enthusiasm and energy at work: “We want our staff team to bring a positive attitude and focus to work. We want everyone to feel valued and ready to contribute in making sure Kibble delivers the best care possible to young people.”

Karen goes above and beyond to advocate that the workplace be reflective of what the staff need. She was instrumental in introducing Kibble’s new policy detailing information about handling menopause at work. In her unwavering commitment to add to the positive culture at Kibble, she plays a huge part in the wider wellbeing group.

Karen describes her motivation for helping to ensure Kibble is an employer that continually strives to raise standards: “I want people to enjoy coming to work, feeling motivated to do their very best. At Kibble, we will always do what we can to make staff team feel supported.”

Kibble puts a great amount of effort into being a good employer and has been recognised and accredited for paving the way for employees to develop professionally and personally. The Herald Top Employer Awards announced Kibble as the Scottish Employer of the Year and Medium Employer of the Year. S1 Jobs Recruitment Awards named Kibble as Scotland’s Best Charity Employer too.

Kibble is also proud to have been awarded ‘Gold’ Status for Investing in People and Investing in Young People. Investors in People (IIP) is a prestigious accreditation presented to outstanding organisations who empower their workforce and have formally recognised Kibble as an organisation who prioritise their staff team.

HR Manager, Karen is one of the voices advocating for Kibble’s workforce. Whether you work at Kibble and spend time directly with young people or are in a supportive role within our corporate services, we’re all working towards helping young people. By supporting the staff team, employees have the resources to make a difference and the young people who need us are the ones who have the most to benefit.

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Learn more about the jobs at Kibble and find out if you’re qualified to work with us in one of our current vacancies or discover how you can change careers through our apprenticeship and trainee programmes.

Why Work with Kibble?

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Kibble and St Mirren introduced a Groundskeeper Traineeship for young people to learn practical skills and gain a recognised iHasco qualification.

Our partnership with St Mirren exists to strengthen youth employment for young people who may have faced adverse life experiences. The Groundskeeper Traineeship is an example of how together, we are motivating young people think about their future and be ambitious in creating a positive livelihood for themselves.

Young learners who attended The Skills Academy, Kibble’s education and training centre, were eligible to apply and interview for the role of Groundskeeper Trainee. The application process required preparation and was set-up to give young people first-hand experience of what it would be like to look for jobs or apply to college or university. The role involved commitment therefore applicants had to remain calm and overcome any nerves while demonstrating their commitment and willingness to consistently arrive on time, concentrate and listen to instructions.

St Mirren General Manager, Lynsey explained young people would receive training from the club’s skilled grounds expert and be mentored in how to become a Groundskeeper themselves: “Through the Groundskeeper Traineeship, a young person works at St Mirren’s training complex at Ralston. They learn how to maintain the grass pitch and Astro Turf pitch as well as how to safely operate machinery, while meeting new people and being part of a friendly and hard-working team.”

The Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa described the benefits of partnering with St Mirren: “Young people gain hands-on, real-life experiences and see what an actual job is like”

Kibble Principal Teacher, Tracey with St Mirren General Manager, Lynsey and Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa.

The first successful Groundskeeper Trainee was an outgoing young person who enjoyed spending time outdoors and enthusiastically took on their allocated key responsibilities. They thrived within the fast-paced routine of a Scottish premiership and became a valuable asset to the team.

Kibble Chief Executive, Jim confirmed the partnership between one of the largest children’s charities and a Scottish premiership football team is making a difference to the lives of young people: “The Groundskeeper Traineeship demonstrates true value in Kibble and St Mirren joining forces to boost youth employment. Young people gain entrepreneurial, practical and academic qualifications that can enhance their CV and increase job opportunities while also teaching transferable life skills.”

“The experience of being amongst a real-life business motivates them to consider, sometimes for the first time ever, higher education or a rewarding job role.”

“We have put the support in place for young learners to get outside the classroom and realise they can succeed in building a positive life for themselves.”

Kibble and St Mirren development projects have included renovating St Mirren’s SMISA Stadium Hospitality Entrance, painting and decorating at the stadium too and refurbishing the training complex changing room plus more.

The Groundskeeper Traineeship is now preparing for the next new recruit to begin.

Posted: March 13, 2025

Find out what life advice our staff team would give their younger selves.

Kibble’s values of Respect, Ambition and Belonging align with International Women’s Day, which focuses on inclusivity and calls on everyone to advocate for gender equality. The positive difference our workforce strives to make is to the lives of young people and the staff team have taken the time to share their life lessons. There is hope that people find the words of encouragement valuable and motivating to always keep moving forward.

The messages resoundingly encouraged us all to accept mistake will happen and to never be discouraged from being yourself. Remember to talk to yourself the way you would talk to a close friend and not put an overwhelming amount of pressure on yourself to be perfect, instead continue to learn, grow and progress.

Life Lessons from Our Staff Team

“The only to go is forward keep going and always do your best.”

“Take care of self and then you have the ability to take care of others. do not strive for perfection, it usually does not exist, strive for progression instead.”

“The things you are worried about now won’t matter as much as you think they will, perspective changes with time.”

Join Us

At Kibble, we want the staff team to feel supported and valued, which is why we offer staff benefits that focus on health, wellbeing and personal development. If you’re inspired by our existing staff team to start a fulfilling career and want to help give young people a chance at life, you can join us. Discover more about working with us and the wide range of apprenticeships, career change traineeships and jobs in Paisley, Glasgow and beyond.

Why Work With Us?

Posted: February 12, 2025

We’re excited to share the opening of Hallhill Cottage, our beautiful residential children’s house in Howwood, Renfrewshire.

Hallhill Cottage is a warm and welcoming children’s house for young people aged 5 – 21. Situated in a stunning semi-rural location in Howwood, Renfrewshire, Hallhill Cottage offers nurturing four-bedroomed accommodation for young people with experience of trauma, adversity or disrupted family circumstances.

In an idyllic setting, Hallhill Cottage is surrounded by rugged countryside, abundant wildlife and breath-takingly unspoiled views. There’s even the occasional visit from majestic roe deer, and there are friendly horses in neighbouring paddocks. Hallhill Cottage offers a beautiful, safe haven for children and young people to grow up and make special childhood memories

Making a House a Home

All aspects of Hallhill Cottage are grounded in Kibble’s Therapeutic, Trauma-informed Model. Echoed across our services, this ensures all aspects of young people’s care, from the natural interiors, tranquil grounds, skilled staff teams and seamless integration with other services, promotes an environment where young people are safe.

The daily rhythms and routines of Hallhill Cottage are typical of modern family-living. It has a large, comfortable living room which opens out onto a large garden, an open plan playroom and dining area to enjoy mealtimes together, a large bright kitchen, and an adjoining utility room perfect to brush off muddy wellies from playing outside.

Entwined in the Community

Whilst enjoying the beauty of the countryside, Hallhill Cottage only a short distance from local amenities. Nearby you’ll find Johnstone centre, with its range of transport links, shops, cafes and restaurants. Young people are encouraged to enjoy all that the community has to offer from attending local groups or clubs, to visiting local attractions, cafes and shops. This ensures young people feel very much a part of their community and encourages them to build new friendships.

From Brownies to badminton, taekwondo the table tennis, the sky is the limit when it comes to enjoying new experiences and discovering new hobbies and interests.

Take a Tour of Hallhill Cottage

Photo Gallery

Living room with comfy sofas and wooden beams

To enquire about residential places at Hallhill Cottage, please contact 0141 889 0044 or email referrals@kibble.org.

Posted: January 7, 2025

This year, two adventurous young lads at Kibble are setting their sights high, with ambitions to climb Scotland’s rugged hills.

The idea to discover Scotland’s mountains was borne from a conversation at the dinner table on New Year’s Day. The idea was sparked following two of the children’s adventure, alongside staff, who climbed Ben A’an on Boxing Day. They were so excited on their return that the other children wanted to join in on future adventures too. No time like the present, with the steak pie dishes in the sink and the desserts being finished, team member Hayley checked the weather forecast for Conic Hill the following day and with blue skies promised, the resolutions were in motion.

With the alarm set early to make the most of daylight hours, the enthusiastic group set off for Balmaha to climb the scenic Conic Hill. The walkers were braced for all weathers, with woolly hats, scarves, gloves and waterproofs should the weather take an unexpected turn. There was great excitement as they made their way up the rocky terrain, greeted by fellow walkers wishing them a Happy New Year as they passed. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, they were welcomed by beautiful, bright blue skies to mark the beginning of a brand-new year.

As the group made their way towards the summit, they even stumbled across a herd of friendly cows. One of the children couldn’t quite believe it, excitedly shouting “are they really, real?”. They decided not to get too close though and keep their pace up the hill. After a few stop-offs to rest their legs, they began to see the peak which formed a shape they imagined was like the Grinch’s lair towering over Whoville. Conversations sparked as to whether the Grinch himself may appear once they reached the top, motivating the boys to keep going.

Reaching the Summit

Despite their weary legs, the walkers reached the summit where they were met with breath-taking views across Loch Lomond and surrounding snow-clad hills. There was also snow on the summit, so the boys enjoyed throwing snowballs and building a snow man. After a quick picnic to recharge and refuel, they made their way back down the hill, and to the warmth of the car.

“I am so proud of the children for setting their intentions and then going for it, without hesitation! What a great way to kick start a new year and we’re excited to look at the map and mark out the year’s adventures, culminating in climbing the Cobbler. When it comes to ambition and determination, the sky is the limit for our boys!”
Hayley Clark, Kibble

Despite the cold weather, the boys were unphased and loved every moment of their day’s adventure. On the car journey home, they spoke of all of the exciting things that they saw and made plans to climb more hills throughout the year, before going camping in the summer and tackling the mighty Cobbler in Arrochar.

After the exertion of the day, the boys were shattered and fell asleep as soon as their heads touched the pillow. We’re sure their dreams were as big as the challenges they aspire to and we can’t wait to hear of their future endeavours discovering Scotland’s majestic mountains.

A huge well done to our young mountaineers!

Posted: December 23, 2024

Young people who attend Kibble’s Skills Academy opened their very own Christmas Shop.

Throughout December, young people set up their very own Christmas Shop from their education and training centre based in Hillington. The young entrepreneurs invited staff from across all Kibble to shop for thoughtfully handmade décor and gifts. There were Christmas wreaths, Christmas baubles, Christmas trees, chilli plants and more.

Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa and Principal Teacher, Tracey at the Christmas Shop.

The Christmas wreaths were all unique as each one was crafted by young people who had gathered foliage and willow to use.

There were real plotted Christmas Trees to decorate to make sure every space could have the traditional scent of Fir Tree.

The charming wooden ornaments feature a detailed scene of a snowy enchanted forest.

There were fun stocking fillers with colourful keyrings, pencils and party bags too.

At the academy, young people gain essential academic qualifications and have opportunities to take part in practical lessons and works experience opportunities. There is a focus on entrepreneurial skills too. The Christmas Shop is an example of young people innovatively applying their sustainability mindset with entrepreneurial spark.

The young entrepreneurs wanted to set-up a social enterprise during the festive season and decided to start a shop that had the unique selling point of one-of-a-kind gifts. Young learners spent time with Sustainability and Green Skills Coordinator, Joe to create individual Christmas wreaths, gathering willow to use as a wreath base and foliage for a vibrant forest green.

Wreath-making was enjoyed by all.

Each wreath was bespoke.

The end result was a series of very happy customers.

Employability and Tenancy Coordinator, Gillian.

Child and Youth Care Worker from the fostering team, Scott.

The Christmas Shop was a great success!

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Kibble young people fundraised £3,000 worth of food for the foodbank in Ferguslie, which is ran by Darkwood Crew community group.

Pupils from Kibble’s Goudie Academy fundraised over £1,500 through their Christmas Fayre in support of Darkwood Crew, a charity with the mission to help Ferguslie flourish. The Senior Leadership Team at Kibble were inspired by the dedication shown by the young fundraisers and agreed to match the amount raised to bring the final count to £3,000.

Executive Director, Neil McMillan described how impressed the entire Senior Leadership team were to hear of the fundraising efforts: “The motivation young people and staff have shown in helping others is outstanding.”

“Young people take the time to select which charity to fundraise for and knew their efforts had the potential to help the foodbank enormously. We are more than happy to get involved as we know our additional contribution is directly making a difference to families in need of extra support.”

As the final tally was confirmed, young people and their teachers went to Asda to select essential food items for families who need extra support before delivering it to Darkwood Crew.

Home Economics Teacher, Carol explains careful thought was given to what staple foods would make the biggest difference: “when going to Asda to buy the food we would donate, young people immediately mentioned chocolate selection boxes. Although a thoughtful idea, we helped young people understand we’re helping families who may be struggling to have a hot meal. Everyone was in full agreement we had to buy the essentials as families are entitled to a nutritious, healthy dinner.”

“It was extremely moving to see young people fully get behind the cause and work together to help others.”

Teacher, Carol and young people went shopping.

Everyone helped stock the shelves and cupboards.

Maths and Employability Teacher, Alicia was grateful for everyone involved. It was a big team effort to organise the Christmas Fayre and fundraise the significant total: “a big well done and thank you to all our young people, staff and teachers who helped to make lovely decorations, baked cakes, made posters or even served on a stall.”

Darkwood Crew Community Market operates every Thursday from 11am in the Tannahill Centre in Ferguslie. The powerful provision is entirely volunteer run by remarkable and compassionate individuals who gift their time to source essential food items and help families feel less anxious about their next meal.

Last Christmas, Darkwood Crew assisted 223 people at the market with a further 53 members receiving a Christmas Hamper on Christmas Eve to ensure they were catered for during the Christmas and New Year one-week shutdown.

Teacher, Alicia with Tannahill Facilities Manager, Christopher and Teacher, Carol.

Darkwood Crew Project Lead and Secretary, Terry was overwhelmed with Kibble’s generous contribution: “What an incredible support to our community market, thank you ever so much to everyone involved. The difference Kibble continues to make with their consistent fundraising efforts cannot be overstated. We are beyond grateful for Kibble’s support in helping some of the most marginalised community members.”

Tannahill Facilities Manager, Christopher found the support remarkable: “Kibble has helped fully stock our cupboards for the most demanding time of year. Christmas can put extra demands on families and now those struggling know they can access support.”

There was great effort put into helping Darkwood Crew. From organising the Christmas Fayre and planning fundraising activities to inviting the wider staff team who came ready to support. All the way through to looking at the fully stocked shelves and cupboards at the community market. By Kibble raising the significant amount, Darkwood Crew can confidently help families throughout Christmas.

Posted: December 20, 2024

Child and Youth Care Worker, Lesley brightens up Christmas time for everyone around her.

Since joining Kibble four years ago, Lesley has chosen to spend every Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Kibble, creating memories for young people who she has formed strong bonds with. The festive period has the power to bring overwhelming emotions to the forefront for some and Lesley takes the time to plan how the day can be enjoyed. Over the years, meaningful traditions have since been created due to Lesley’s compassionate energy and enthusiasm for making good memories during the demanding time of year.

Lesley with the festive Christmas tree.

Lesley’s preparations begin long before the 24^th December as she is determined to bring joyful moments while also offering space to those who wish to reflect and remember special people who are no longer with us.

The traditions involve Christmas Eve boxes, which include matching jammies to wear the night before waking up in the morning to a big breakfast and presents. Young people spend the day relaxing before having Christmas dinner and Lesley’s on-hand to prepare any special requests from young people – one being a wish for honey-glazed carrots. As well as the Christmas meals, a cheeseboard and snacks are fan-favourites too. The house has a large open plan kitchen and living area where young people are happy to be and help prepare the dinner and set the table.

Lesley and some young people want to remember past loved ones and will do so by lighting-up balloons together. The time of year can magnify feelings of grief and sadness therefore there must be the option to step away from the festivities when needed and have quiet time to reflect.

The house where Lesley is based, may pair up with another house and spend time together. The number of people in each house can differ depending on if young people are seeing family members. By getting together, there’s a bigger group to enjoy one another’s company.

Child and Youth Care Worker, Lesley and Acting Service Manager, John who bring Christmas magic to life for young people.

Lesley fully understands Christmas can mean different things to different people and encourages others to make it their own. Lesley has brought bespoke traditions to the house in the hope young people have memories they can hold on to and look back upon with happiness.

Join Lesley

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