CityWorks students make a positive impact through Growing 21 partnership

City of Glasgow College’s CityWorks Supported Learning students are making a positive contribution to the local community through an ongoing partnership with Growing 21, while developing valuable work, social and life skills.

For the past 18 months, students have volunteered weekly with Growing 21, supporting activities at Ruchazie Pantry and FireClay Café. This term, new student groups completed five-month placements, building on the work of previous cohorts.

Every Thursday, students take part in structured work placements across a range of settings, including the College campus, Riverside Campus, the library, the Sheriff Court and with Growing 21. At Ruchazie Pantry and FireClay Café, students gain hands-on experience in shop, café and garden environments while supporting an important community resource.

The placements focus on developing employability skills alongside independence, responsibility and travel training. Students learn to travel independently by bus and manage their own time and tasks. One student said:

“We have the independence to go to work ourselves. We are in charge of our timekeeping and have more responsibility.”

For many, this is their first experience of work. Another student reflected:

“I never had a job before. Although it was terrifying at first, I now don’t feel worried – it feels like a normal part of everyday life.”

Gillian Graham, Lecturer in Educational Support Programmes, said:

“The students have grown in confidence and independence each week. They increasingly use their own initiative, and the variety of experience on offer, along with the supportive staff, makes this a valuable partnership for now and the future.”

As part of the partnership, students also helped organise a pop-up stall on campus to raise awareness of Ruchazie Pantry, raising £350 in one day through the sale of cakes and coffee. Further pop-up events are planned later in the term.

The partnership with Growing 21 continues to provide inclusive, meaningful work experiences while strengthening the College’s connection with the local community.