Highland businesses are being invited to take part in the return of the Council’s Paid Summer Placement programme in 2026, offering young people the chance to gain paid work experience while helping employers invest in the future workforce of the region.
The Highland Council has confirmed it will host the programme again following a successful pilot in 2025, with the scheme aimed at senior phase pupils aged 16 and over during the summer holidays.
The Council is now encouraging businesses across the Highland area to come forward and offer placements, helping young people gain real world experience while showcasing the range of careers available locally.
The expanded programme reflects a wider commitment to retaining talent in the Highlands, reducing outward migration and strengthening the regional economy.
Education Committee Chair John Finlayson said:
“Following the successful Paid Summer Placement pilot in 2025, the Council is expanding the opportunity with the ambition of offering senior phase pupils aged 16 and over the chance to gain valuable work experience during the 2026 summer holidays.
“This initiative helps young people broaden their understanding of the wide range of career pathways available across different sectors.
“The Council is encouraging other businesses to get in touch to explore how they can also get involved and play a part in shaping the workforce of the future, right here in the Highlands.”
Placements will run for four weeks over the school summer holidays, with participants working 27.5 hours per week and receiving paid employment while gaining practical experience.
The initiative is designed to ensure young people are aware of local career opportunities, highlight alternative routes to qualifications including Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships, and support the long term retention of local talent.
By keeping opportunities visible and accessible, the programme also aims to strengthen links between schools, employers and communities.
Working in partnership with Developing the Young Workforce teams across Highland, the Council will promote placement opportunities within schools to ensure young people across the region are aware of what is available.
For employers, the scheme offers early engagement with motivated young people, the chance to build a future talent pipeline, and an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to community development and corporate social responsibility.
Businesses taking part also benefit from fresh ideas and enthusiasm, enhanced local reputation, and the ability to help shape the skills and attitudes of the next generation of Highland workers.
Businesses interested in hosting a Paid Summer Placement or learning more about how the programme works are encouraged to get in touch with the Council to discuss participation.
If you would like to be part of this programme or learn more about how it works, please complete link Summer Paid Placements 2026 – Fill in form or contact the Project Officer Kerry.nicholas@highland.gov.uk to discuss further.
