Meet the DYWICH School Coordinator Team for 2025–2026
5 September 2025
As a new academic year gets underway, we’re delighted to introduce the Developing the Young Workforce Inverness & Central Highland (DYWICH) School Coordinator team for 2025–2026.
This dedicated team brings together a wealth of experience and a shared passion for helping young people across our 14 secondary schools to connect education with the world of work.
Throughout the year, our School Coordinators will work collaboratively with students, teachers, and local employers to deliver activities that bring the curriculum to life, spark career ambitions, and equip every young person with the confidence and skills they need to thrive. From organising industry-led workshops and workplace visits to employer talks and tailored projects, the team helps ensure young people can explore the opportunities available in our region and beyond.
Fantastic New Additions
[pictured l-r: Kate and Gillian]
We’re pleased to welcome two new faces this year - Kate Morris, School Coordinator for Fortrose Academy, and Gillian Denovan, School Coordinator for Inverness Royal Academy and Glen Urquhart High School.
Gillian said, “What I enjoy most about being a DYW School Coordinator is the variety and impact of the role. I love being able to connect pupils with local employers, experiences and opportunities that help them see the relevance of their learning and inspire them to think about their own career journeys.”
Kate shared, “There are a lot of opportunities in the Highlands today – and it’s great to be part of a team that showcases them and inspires young people to realise their potential.”
Our Wider Team
Kate and Gillian join an established group of School Coordinators who are all motivated by making a difference in young people’s lives:
Debbie Khadi (Kingussie High School & Grantown Grammar School) said, “The best bit is when an event or activity I’ve helped to deliver inspires a young person in a particular direction, and I see them take their first step on that journey.”
Louise Taylor (Nairn Academy) loves, “Being able to use the skills I’ve learned in previous roles to create activities that suit the needs of the school. I enjoy the flexibility of the role and the many different ways we can inspire young people and connect with employers.”
Wendy Hennem (Peripatetic School Coordinator) shared, “There’s nothing better than linking employers with young people and seeing the impact this has. It’s about showing them what’s out there once they leave school and giving them a broader outlook on the opportunities and pathways ahead.”
Emma Donald (Inverness High School & Charleston Academy) said, “My job allows me to learn about a wide range of professions and the passions that drive people in their careers. Sharing this knowledge with young people as they explore their future paths is a privilege – and it’s exciting to watch them feel inspired by the opportunities ahead.”
Soraya Macdonald (Culloden Academy) loves, “Supporting the transition of young people from education to the labour market, and helping teachers make the curriculum relevant to the working world – for example, linking mathematics with hospitality.”
Jody Cataneo (Millburn Academy) explains, “I love that no day is the same, but especially being able to showcase the many different options available to young people after school. It’s about giving the next generation the confidence to be themselves and find the route that works for them.”
Pamela Comery (Alness Academy, Invergordon Academy & Tain Academy) added, “I’m looking forward to working with my schools to plan activities that help young people engage with the workforce and show them that there really is something out there for everyone.”
Sandy MacKenzie (Dingwall Academy) said, “I’m captivated by the school environment and the commitment of those within it. The challenges, demands, hopes and expectations are enormous – and I’m looking forward to being a small part of making a difference.”
Leadership Support
Our DYW School Coordinators are supported by our management team: Liz Fletcher, DYWICH Programme Lead, Sandra McCaughey, DYW Employer Engagement Manager, and Gregor Campbell, DYW Operations Manager.
They are always available to answer questions from businesses and stakeholders, and to support opportunities for collaboration with DYW. You can reach the team at info@dywich.co.uk.
As the year unfolds, we look forward to sharing the stories, successes, and inspiring projects our School Coordinators will deliver across the region – all helping young people to explore their potential and prepare for life beyond the classroom.
