Yorkhill Welcomes Whitehill Secondary Pupils as Part of GROW Programme

GROW introduces young people to a range of workplaces across eight sectors, with weekly employer visits that help build confidence, skills, and awareness of future careers.

Yorkhill Housing Association welcomed the group to its offices on Argyle Street, where staff delivered an interactive and informative four‑hour session covering various aspects of social housing.

The visit began with a warm introduction to Yorkhill Housing Association and its role within the local community, followed by a brief tour of the office and an overview of the services the organisation provides.  Pupils then took part in a series of activities including a housing allocation exercise, a health & safety compliance challenge, informal Q&A lunch session with staff and a community project planning activity.

Pupils visited one of Yorkhill Housing Association’s void properties, giving them the opportunity to step inside an unoccupied home and see the preparation work that takes place before a new tenant moves in. Guided by staff, they carried out a real‑world style inspection, checking for hazards such as trip risks, damp indicators, ventilation concerns, damaged fixtures, and missing safety features. They discussed how each issue could affect a future tenant and suggested practical solutions, gaining a genuine insight into the safety, repair, and compliance processes that ensure homes are safe, secure, and ready to let.

Over lunch, pupils took part in an informal Q&A session with staff from across the Association. Team members shared their career journeys, challenges they’ve faced, and insights into their day‑to‑day roles. The relaxed setting encouraged pupils to ask questions giving them a well‑rounded understanding of the many career paths within the organisation.

Gary Watson, Finance Manager, said “Yorkhill Housing Association’s involvement in the GROW programme reflects its commitment not only to providing high‑quality housing and services, but also to investing in the future of young people across Glasgow. By opening its doors and sharing real‑world experiences, the Association aims to inspire a new generation of housing professionals”.