John leads by example and puts young people first at every opportunity and his mindset does not waver during Christmas.
December is a busy time for everyone. There are added demands as time hurtles quickly towards the 25th with pressures to have an idyllic day while emotions can feel largely heightened. However, John’s priority is motivating his colleagues into maintaining safety, stability and positivity. The adults work closely together to keep young people’s spirits up and make sure they’re looking forward to the holiday.
Child and Youth Care Worker, Lesley with Acting Service Manager, John with their tree.
The staff team consider how young people would prefer to spend Christmas Day, letting the kids know they are always there to be a sounding board to how they’re feeling. Within this particular house, there are bespoke traditions of Christmas Eve boxes, Christmas jammies and a breakfast with presents before preparing dinner. There is also the option to meet up with another house nearby to have a bigger gathering to eat and laugh altogether. In amongst the festivities, there is space to take a breather and have personal time to yourself. The hope is for people to enjoy the day, for it to be laid-back, go at a leisurely pace and be calm.
John now has to balance a leadership role with wanting to spend as much time as possible with young people and is determined to show young people and colleagues he’ll consistently be on-hand to listen, help and support, even during the busy period of Christmas.
Hayley is based within one of our residential children’s houses at Forest View in Lochwinnoch. She cares for younger children between the ages of five and 12 and makes sure Christmas feels magical for them.
When you’re younger, Christmas time can be filled with wonder and enchantment and Hayley wholeheartedly believes in making December as special as possible for those at Forest View.
Hayley shares the month of December is a favourite of hers: “I love when the Christmas rush begins. We help children write their letters to Santa and see the joy on their faces each morning when they wake up to see what mischief the elf has been up to. One of the favourites, has been when the elves pinched some apples and dressed up as Ninja Turtles.
She describes the fun children have throughout Christmas time: “The children are enjoying trips to the panto, having breakfast with Santa and have went to Winter Wonderland at Valley View.”
It’s filled with sentimental memories: “The children love getting creative and have made their own stockings and decorations for the tree. We kept a handmade star made by one young person last Christmas and this year, he helped put up the tree and placed his star at the top.”
While there can be lots going on during the busy time of year, the wholesome traditions remain precious: “Christmas can be a difficult time of year for some people and we really try and make it as magical for the children as we can. We love to get the children involved in all the Christmas traditions from sprinkling the reindeer dust to leaving out a carrot, some milk and a cookie for Santa.”
For the past six years, Hayley has built her career at Kibble. She understands the job role is essential and comes with the requirement of being present at all times of the year and looks forward to December. Hayley embraces the opportunity to make lifelong memories for children and sees it as a privilege.
Ultimately, Hayley’s Christmas wish is for young people to be happy: “I love the feeling of knowing you are making a positive difference in a child’s life no matter how big or small that may be.”
At every opportunity, Lindsay puts 100% effort into making sure young people she cares for feel happy, safe and optimistic.
Child and Youth Care Worker, Lindsay works within one of our residential children’s houses in Glasgow, supporting teenagers as they learn to become more independent. Lindsay’s enthusiasm for celebrating seasons, occasions and happy moments has encouraged young people to become more open-minded in creating their own festive traditions.
At Christmas time, Lindsay and the close-knit staff team carefully consider young people’s thoughts and feelings about the demanding time of year. The entire team try to prevent young people from becoming overwhelmed with decorations, emotional strain, hectic plans and disrupted routines. Amongst the noise of Christmas, young people are very much listened to and decide how to have fun.
Lindsay, prides herself on enthusiastically celebrating each small to big achievement. She is nicknamed, Mrs Christmas and has four trees in her own home. Her positive attitude paired with respecting the feelings of others has encouraged the teenagers to start their own traditions. By showing empathy, Lindsay has helped young people understand they can get involved with the merriment at their own pace and comfort level.
Lindsay is proud of young people for decorating the house together.
The excitement and dedication to creating happy moments has inspired young people to put up a Christmas tree in the living room and outdoor twinkling lights. Young people also decided on trips to the cinema, Irn-Bru Carnival and Glasgow Christmas Market. Memories have been made in the house with young people and adults spending time altogether.
Lindsay and young people put up a tree.
Outdoor lights make the house look festive.
Lindsay shares a further insight into the day-to-day life and how Christmas fits in: “My week usually involves motivating young people to achieve their goals. It can be to attend college, explore education options and learn to budget. Overall, help young people develop independence and capable of one day living themselves in their own house. Most of all, we try to have lots of fun. We cook new things to try, watch TV, play boardgames, there’s always music on and sometimes, there’s dancing around the living room. The house is lived in with plenty of laughter, Scottish sarcasm and humour.”
“On Christmas Day, there’s the option of a turkey dinner with all the trimmings and for those who prefer something different for dinner, we might splash out on a takeaway.”
“Over Christmas and New Year, we’re getting into cooking and baking and plan to make a homemade fabulous Ferrero Rocher cheesecake. Hopefully, young people are up for joining in with karaoke.”
As a Child and Youth Care Worker at Kibble, there is an understanding the job role is a career, which involves being on-hand at all times of the year: “Working in any care environment can involve working through the holidays. We have a great team who work together and create a plan for young people to have consistency and for adults to enjoy time at home too. Each one of us understands the importance of giving our young people a special day in a fun and loving environment.”
Lindsay would describe Christmas at Kibble as being special: “Christmas allows us all to bring out our inner child. There’s a thrill in the small things like decorating the tree, treating the kids to a little more than usual and planning day trips. The houses in our cul-de-sac always go to a great effort to decorate making it lovely to drive in at night. In the day time, we receive visits from our woodland friends including squirrels and deer. Just a few weeks ago, we took lovely photos of the animals in the snow. It’s such a cosy and peaceful place to be.”
Lindsay knew she wanted to make a difference to the lives of young people and particularly wanted to build a career at Kibble: “My decision to move to Kibble was to have a positive impact on the life of others. I wanted to help young people to achieve the education and life skills necessary for a positive future in adulthood. I researched Kibble and found the organisation had a range of support services for their young people and also invested in their employees too. Kibble help the staff team expand their knowledge, which allows us to strengthen our ability to do our job well and be the best we can be for the kids.”
“The training and development opportunities were a huge factor for me as I love to learn and push myself to excel. One thing many don’t know is that I applied to Kibble twice before I got the job. I was eager and knew I’d get there. The first time I applied, I didn’t reach the interview stage. I decided to not let it get me down and instead, gain a similar job role in care to increase my experience and build on my knowledge. Next time Kibble were recruiting, I was prepared and got the job! It all worked out in the end.”
Her focus has always been to bond with young people: “I find fulfilment in building relationships with young people across our houses. Each have unique personalities: some are natural born comedians; some are creative; and some are wonderfully gifted with other impressive talents.”
All throughout the year, Lindsay and her colleagues bring magic to the lives of young people by making sure the house is fun, safe and peaceful and somewhere, they can be themselves.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas with plenty of festivities taking place across the different services and locations of Kibble. Read on to discover the magical calendar of events.
Mirin Academy’s Christmas Fayre
Mirin Academy’s Christmas Fayre was a massive success with LIVE music and colourful shopping stalls filled with sparkly Christmas decorations and delicious sweet treats.
Smiles All Round at the Staff Kids’ Christmas Party
An annual event that’s never to be missed! The Staff Kids’ Christmas Party has SANTA on the guestlist and everyone was in awe meeting Mr Claus and his helpers.
Kibble stepped into the spotlight with a hilarious adaptation of A Christmas Carol.
Titled Ebenezer Scrooge, talented Goudie Academy learners re-enacted the Dickens classic to invited audiences at Kibble’s Gannochy Theatre at the beginning of December, before taking it on the road.
The panto followed the story of the miserly Scrooge who despises Christmas and all that it entails. That is, until he is visited by three spirits at the chime of midnight on Christmas Eve – the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. By enabling him to observe past Christmases and the lives of those around him, including the plight of worker Miss Cratchit and son, Tiny Tim, Scrooge learns the kindness of humanity and the warmth of Christmas.
The cast took to the stage and brought the tale into modern times. The talented young people cleverly devised the script and even wrote the song lyrics. In true panto style, there was laughter, hearty singing and audience participation.
The performances at Kibble’s Gannochy Theatre were tremendous but the best show was at the Milldale Day Centre. The show travelled to Linwood to put on an event for the adults at Milldale who would now call themselves ‘theatregoers’ as they were in awe at the talented actors. There were massive smiles on everyone’s faces as the crowd were in awe with the characters, music and costumes.
It is unanimous that a standing ovation is well-deserved the cast and crew.
KidsOut
Kibble donated Over 70 Christmas presents. At our Corporate Headquarters in Finnieston, a KidsOut ‘Giving Tree’ was placed and decorated with gift tags – each one had a child’s name, age and a Christmas gift they’d love to receive. The gift tags were from families and children who, without help, would receive very little or nothing at all.
The thoughtful initiative resonated with us and from one charity to another, we had to get involved. On the final day, the remaining tags were fulfilled by Kibble. A total of 74 gifts were donated to KidsOut through their ‘Giving Tree’ project with 17 being directly from staff members themselves. The gifts included a colouring set, a football, a cuddly toy, a sports bag and we hope all bring smiles to the children.
As well as helping others and giving gifts, Kibble has also received donations and presents from thoughtful businesses and individuals who wanted to make sure young people we support have an extra surprise on Christmas Day.
All children deserve to have happy memories and feel special.
The Elves Have Been Causing Mischief
All across Kibble within our residential children’s houses, the elves have had plenty of fun. They’ve tried to shine shoes, turn the dishwasher into a car wash and hide candy cane sweeties for us to find.
Hear about Forest View’s Christmas Fayre
Kibble’s Christmas plans began with Forest View’s magical Christmas Fayre, which raised money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
The primary school in Lochwinnoch organised a fantastic event with plenty of stalls and activities plus a raffle with sensational prizes.
Everyone arrived ready to shop for homemade crafts, Christmas decorations and garlands, jewellery, bookmarks and reindeer dust.
For the raffle, local businesses from Lochwinnoch and beyond got involved by donating valuable prizes. We were grateful to all for contributing to our fundraiser. Thank you to Lulu’s, The Village Barber Lochwinnoch, The Junction Café, The Three Churches, Shrubs to Suds, Leondaro’s, Starbucks, Company Shop in Renfrew, Empire Coaching and Macfarlane and Young Estate Agents.
Overall, great fun was had by all!
Festive Fun at Goudie Academy’s Christmas Fayre
Goudie Academy held a Christmas Fayre in support of Darkwood Crew who have the mission to help the area of Ferguslie flourish. The joyful event successfully raised over £1,500.
Secondary pupils and the staff team invited everyone from Kibble. The room was full of shopping stalls, games and raffles. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed finding stocking fillers and gifts as candles, personalised items and handmade decorations were for sale.
Prizes were won too! Well done to Principal Teacher, Amy who won ‘Guess the Teddy’s Name’ with the entry of ‘Coco’.
Crowds entered into the Christmas Fayre and could clearly see how much organisation had went into the event, creating an atmosphere that had everyone feeling merry.
The holiday season often brims with a packed calendar, leaving many feeling overwhelmed. Yet, joyful charitable events can bring perspective, reminding us of what truly matters and creating cherished memories that make it easy to agree—it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
Graffiti artist, David Knox visited The Skills Academy to help young artists craft their own style of street art.
Students with an interest in painting and decorating train with Skills Academy Instructor, Paul. The youngsters also have the opportunity to further develop their artistic abilities by joining valuable masterclasses with genuine professionals working within the industry. With help from David and Paul, the young aspiring artists redecorated their paint workshop with their own street art style.
At Kibble’s Skills Academy, young people are encouraged to bring their imagination to life and further develop their creative skills whether it is script-writing, music-making, video creation, building through their construction course or completing an art project. Across all subjects, young people paint outside the lines at our academy.
Students have shown great talent in street art and produced original artwork with a colourful urban style. Graffiti has become more and more popular with many aspiring artists taking inspiration from the contemporary works by Banksy.
Young people can design text, images and illustrations by hand using spray paint. The distinctive sketches stand out and is a form of self-expression. The time spent with Instructor, Paul and masterclass with graffiti artist, David has helped enhance young peoples’ overall creative talent.
Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa is certain young people will break down walls with their creative skills and was in awe at the transformation by young people. Lisa shared, “Young people have brightened up the place with their designs.”
The Skills Academy empowers young people to fulfil their potential and achieve. Through the academy, young people can enjoy learning about a subject they have an interest in and begin to optimistically look towards their future. Those who complete the Painting and Decoration course and accomplish an SCQF Level 4 in Construction Craft and Technician may consider entry into college or an apprenticeship. The future career possibilities are endless.
Posted: November 14, 2024
Young people became experts in the art of coffee-making as The Skills Academy held an industry-leading barista training session.
Cappuccino, americano, espresso and vanilla latte. All were among the popular coffee drinks crafted by young people using a commercial coffee-maker. Young people were extremely professional throughout the training session and each were awarded the ‘Barista Skills Course Completion Certificate’ to add to their CV and widen future employment opportunities.
Most importantly, the aspiring baristas received outstanding customer reviews with Principal Teacher, Tracey giving her coffee and customer service top marks.
All youngsters agreed the training was fun with one potential entrepreneur imagining his own coffee shop called, ‘Coffee Toffee’.
The Skills Academy has an ambitious plan to be Scotland’s leading education and training centre for young people. The external training is an example of the academy striving to form partnership with more genuine businesses to help prepare youngsters for the world of work.
The academy welcomed portable coffee bar and events company, Kart Coffee, which provide coffee bars for weddings and events, the company also offer barista training. The business is owned by Ryan who delivered the training to our young people.
Kart Coffee Owner, Ryan is 27-years-old with over 10 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Young Ryan did not enjoy school and instead of continuing onto higher education, Ryan began working in cafes and restaurants from 16-years-old. The practical learning and connecting with people suited Ryan’s personality and he has since built a thriving career establishing his own coffee cart business.
As a young entrepreneur, Ryan showed young people what is possible when you find something you enjoy. His story has the potential to motivate young learners to believe in themselves and plan a brighter future.
The Skills Academy focuses on entrepreneurial skills and incorporates opportunities for young people to develop skills in business, finance, customer service and leadership.
Posted: November 12, 2024
Kibble invited those who work with children, young people and families to come together and discuss what more can be done to improve the world children grow-up in.
Executive Director, Neil McMillan began the event and introduced the chair, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, Nicola Killean.
The powerful speakers included Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, Maree Todd; Dr Lisa Cherry, Director of Trauma Informed Consultancy Services; Graeme Armstrong, Bestselling Author. As well as Kibble Clinical Director, Dan Johnson.
Minister, Maree Todd reflected on progress made so far and understood it is us our only our collective efforts that will lead to meaningful change for children and families across Scotland. Dr Lisa Cherry gave her insight into belonging, emphasising the answer is always relationships. Clinical Director, Dan Johnson highlighted there is a call for changing with young people and shared research findings to help gain an understanding of the world of young people today. Best-selling author, Graeme Armstrong delivered a compelling keynote of his personal experience of gang culture in Scotland. Each keynote was different yet all resonated with everyone in the room, motivating us all to do even more to help.
“Our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.” Brene Brown as cited by Lisa Cherry.
There was a wide-variety of engaging workshops from different organisations including CELCIS, CYCJ, Resilience and Learning Partnership. Additionally, Kibble’s own workshops included The Value of Adoption by Kibble Adoption and Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA); Integrated Practice in Residential Child Care from Therapeutic Practitioner, Rachel Nolan; Principal Teacher, Lucy Farr and Service Manager, Caitlin Donachie; and Transforming Lives Through Workforce Development by Depute Director of Education, Leona Donnelly and Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa Wardlaw.
‘The Value of Adoption’ session by Kibble Adoption and CVAA asked – what’s best for children? The question was answered in detail with Operations Manager for Kibble Adoption, Paula Harkins and Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA), Satwinder Sandhu explaining the potential of adoption and the plans to further modernise and provide a better world for children.
Whereas, ‘Integrated Practice in Residential Childcare’ by Kibble considered the link between therapy, education and care and following Kibble’s therapeutic trauma-informed model. Case study examples were discussed to identify learnings and challenges. The stories motivated us to continuously find ways to work collaboratively and also, alongside young people.
The education workshop delivered by Kibble Depute Director of Education, Leona and Head of The Skills Academy, Lisa Wardlaw encouraged attendees to reflect on their own career journey, asking: what did you want to do at five-years-old? Before comparing it to today’s job title. Leona used the opportunity to highlight: there is no wrong path, all experiences have the power to teach us skills that can one day lead to a positive destination. The Skills Academy place importance on teaching young people on how to adapt and socialise. By developing meta skills and interpersonal skills, young people have the resources and tools to reach positive destination.
Exhibitors were from various valuable organisations and included YGam, Paws for Progress, Children in Scotland, Pineapple Contracts and Kingsway Group. There was also, Mind of My Own, Scottish Sentencing Council, Peeple, Do-Be Mindful, Kibble Fostering and Kibble Adoption and Scottish Institute Residential Child Care.
Overall, the inspiring day was thriving with people ready to drive forward change. Our hope is for the influential keynotes and transformative workshops continues to resonate and leads to meaningful, lasting actions that improve the lives of young people.
Take a Look at Photos from Kibble’s Annual Conference 2024
Posted: October 31, 2024
In the wild west of Scotland, the small town of Paisley is known for throwing a mighty Halloween spectacular with Kibble joining in the fun.
The headlining moment of the two-day Paisley Halloween Festival was the parade involving over 300 people. Professional dancers, mesmerising entertainers and talented community groups all made their way through the town centre, performing for the captivated crowd. Kibble excitedly agreed to walk the route amidst all the parade performers.
Kibble smashed the challenge of standing out amongst the thrilling acts with the theme of Zombie Cowboys and created a magnificent life-size horse exhibition.
Talented young people with the help of their creative teachers and Visual Artist, Barry Neeson carefully crafted a large horse that with its helpers, would stand approximately eight-foot tall. The structure was thoughtfully planned and the fabric was prepared for the tie-dye technique with neon paint to help the artwork be even further eye-catching in the dark.
Young people and adults fully committed to the theme with their full face painted to look as gruesome as possible and mimic the appearance of only the eldest zombie. The costumes completed the style as cowboy boots, hats and checked shirts were worn by all.
Every October, young people and adults get involved with celebrating spooky season – there has been haunted trails, Halloween discos and a full range of comical or petrifying costumes. It can get competitive as each of us try to decorate in the scariest way possible. It’s become tradition for Kibble to get involved with the annual Paisley Halloween Festival too – and this year was one of the best memories yet.
One younger person who came to watch their friends in the parade decided to dress up for Halloween as a Zombie Cowboy as they wanted to be exactly like their pals from school!
The plans were led by Kibble Teacher, Elissa who shared it was a massive team effort: “There was a lot of preparation involved and it’s only down to the dedication and talent of the entire team of young people and adults that meant the evening was a huge success. Everyone showed up ready to have a great time!”
Posted: August 30, 2024
With a career at Kibble spanning 15 years’, Ross has become a familiar friendly face to young people and adults. He is based at The Skills Academy at Hillington but often travels across all locations to perform vehicle check-ups, making him recognisable to all.
Ross oversees Kibble’s fleet of over 70 vehicles completing essential maintenance to keep cars safe and roadworthy. Ross also delivers City and Guilds qualifications to young aspiring mechanics.
“My favourite part of my career at Kibble is mentoring young people and seeing them do well.”
Currently, two young people are completing their Vehicle Maintenance and Repair qualifications. With Ross’ direction, young people are trusted with the daily vehicle checks. The youngsters understand the responsibility and importance of car safety and are determined to achieve increase their knowledge and skillset. They are particularly interested in servicing a car and repairing tyres.
“It is rewarding to see young people take a genuine interest in mechanics. One young person I previously taught is now a successful mechanic who continues to progress further – I hear from them often as they’re extremely proud of the career they’ve now got!”
Each day at Kibble is different and Ross wouldn’t change it – he enjoys completing a wide range of tasks and spending time with young people and colleagues. He is sociable, outgoing and ready to offer assistance to anyone who needs a helping hand with their car.
“I thoroughly enjoy my career. It’s a good crowd at The Skills Academy who I work with every day. I also travel to visit the houses and discuss any requirements with their cars as well as answer any call-outs.”
“I meet all the good people who work at Kibble in my role and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the team.”
Catering Trainer Julie is based at Kibble’s Skills Academy as she mentors young people to develop their own culinary skills. Julie is often found smiling in the kitchen, surrounded by young people as her enthusiasm, positive energy and clear direction is enjoyable to be around. Julie’s guidance inspires young people follow suit and work towards their own career in catering and hospitality.
Julie initially joined Kibble as a part-time Domestic Assistant and in the 13-years since, she has progressed through various roles to now be a Catering Trainer. Kibble prides itself on being a forward-thinking and innovative organisation and Julie’s career journey emphasises the job variety and longevity we can offer. Julie, herself, is a shining example of an ambitious, caring and loyal team member.
“I started off as a part-time Domestic Assistant before one of my talented colleagues from the catering team supported me to gain an SVQ3 in catering and qualify as a Cook; before beginning an assessor qualification to become a Catering Trainer.”
“The team and I cater for all of Kibble’s services including Goudie Academy, the various residential children’s houses and their different locations as well as St Mirren Football Club.”
“While completing the catering requests, I train two or three young people through their SQA in Hospitality.”
“I would describe the catering roles at Kibble as fast-paced. We need to be highly organised to make sure all requests are met and delivered to the correct destination plus tailor meals to each dietary requirement.”
“A highlight of my role is spending time with young people and getting to know them. I enjoy seeing them come out their shell and growing in confidence to complete tasks independently.
I would highly recommend beginning your career at Kibble as it’s a great company to work for. I look forward to each day ahead.”
