Argyll and Bute Council has once again demonstrated a strong performance in supporting young people into education, training, and employment. The latest Annual Participation Measure (APM) shows that 94.6% of 16–19-year-olds were participating between April 2024 and March 2025, an increase of 0.3% on last year and 1.3% above the Scottish average of 93.3%.
This achievement places Argyll and Bute 10th out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities, marking the eighth consecutive year in the top ten. Figures show that 28% of young people in Argyll and Bute are in work, 7.3% above the national average and 65.4% are in education, slightly below the national figure of 70.4%.
While participation in education is lower than the national average, Argyll and Bute continues to lead in employment opportunities for young people, reflecting the strength of local businesses and training providers.
The Council’s Education Service will continue to work with partners including Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Community Learning and Development (CLD), third sector organisations and businesses to ensure participation rates in Argyll and Bute increase, and that all young people move into their chosen, sustained positive destination post-school.
Councillor Kieron Green, Policy Lead for Education:
"These figures highlight our commitment to creating pathways for young people to succeed, whether through education or employment. We are proud to maintain our position among Scotland’s top-performing areas as we continue to promote Argyll and Bute as a great place to live, grow and work.”
The Annual Participation Measure is compiled by Skills Development Scotland using data from local authorities, colleges, and national agencies. Classifications include school pupils, higher and further education, apprenticeships, employment, training, and voluntary work.
Read the Annual Participation Measure 2024-25 report (item 11).
