Modern Apprentice starts with JudoScotland

A partnership with sportscotland Modern Apprenticeship and Enable Works sees Emma McInulty join JudoScotland. 

Emma has begun her 18-month apprenticeship in Business Administration with the JudoScotland Business Support Team, working with membership services, administration and JudoScotland events.  

Working in collaboration with both sportscotland and Enable Works, the goal of the Modern Apprentice Programme is to support young disabled persons into the workplace while gaining their qualification.  

Disabled people are often underrepresented across all aspects of the sporting system. This programme aims to identify ways of diversifying the workforce and recruiting more young disabled people into careers in Sport. As part of the programme, apprentices get the opportunity to meet regularly, share their experiences and build a support network. 

As the governing body for Judo in Scotland, JudoScotland will be supporting athletes taking part in next year’s highly anticipated Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The global event runs from Thursday 23rd July to Sunday 2nd August 2026. The Games will showcase a 10-sport programme across four key venues within an eight-mile corridor of the city. With over 200 gold medals up for grabs across 10 action-packed days, this promises to be an unforgettable event.  

Emma said: “I’m really excited to join JudoScotland and get stuck into my new role. I think it will really help me to grow my confidence in the workplace and gain an extra qualification. 

“The thing I am most looking forward to is helping with events. I’ve volunteered at a couple of JudoScotland events in the past, so I’m quite interested in seeing how they come together in the background and all the work that goes into making them possible.” 

Ashley Ryan, Director of Enable Works, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Emma to gain valuable experience in the world of sport while developing her skills and confidence. Inclusive partnerships like this don't just benefit individuals, they strengthen workplaces and build more diverse, forward-thinking organisations. With the Commonwealth Games coming to Glasgow next year, it’s an exciting time for Emma to be starting her career in sport. Through strong partnerships and inclusive apprenticeships, we can create lasting change and open more opportunities for young disabled people to thrive.” 

The initiative is led by sportscotland and Enable Works with the support of employers such as JudoScotland. JudoScotland is one of several Scottish Governing Bodies, Local Authorities and National Partners who are participating in the scheme. The Supported Modern Apprenticeship programme has achieved substantial success in supporting young disabled people and guiding sports organisations toward more inclusive practices. The programme’s lasting legacy promises a more inclusive and diverse workforce across Scotland’s sports sector, fostering a culture where disability inclusion becomes the standard.