We are always looking for businesses to inspire our students to think more widely about their futures and working life. Allowing students to hear from real life role models means they then see a true demonstration of the relevance and connection of what is taught in the classroom - it helps students contextualise their learning and bring classroom subjects to life, linking this with a specific career field.
There are many ways businesses can help Nova Hreod Academy students realise their potential and pursue the right career path for them. In fact, the more businesses we can involve in our careers programme, the more experiences students have. There is always a project running that we are looking for support from local businesses for. Here are just a few examples of ways you could get involved:
Business Mentoring: This involves supporting students in their CV and application writing, understanding their motivations, choices, goals and action planning to reach their career goals.
Work Inspiration visits: Providing “a day in the life of type experience” to help students to understand the variety and scope of roles within an organisation and the career paths of employees. Many organisations find that young people are often unaware of the full range of potential roles within an organisation. This initiative aims to raise their awareness by providing an overview of the range of jobs that exist, ensuring they are better prepared when they enter the workplace because they will have more realistic expectations, understand what skills are required and be able to make more informed decisions about their study and career choices. For employers, this means higher quality applicants, reduction in recruitment costs and improved retention.
Mock Interviews: In order to make our mock interview sessions as meaningful as possible, we also use external business people to hold the interviews with the young people. The aim is for students to understand how to prepare for an interview and build their interview skills. We also ask that students are allowed time at the end of the interview to ask any questions they may have about you, your job, careers in your industry etc.
Work Experience Placements: We are always seeking businesses who could support our annual Year 10 work experience placement weeks in July. This allows students to get a real understanding of what it’s like work in a business environment, help them decide if the industry is for them and really steer them in a positive direction. We find a lot of students go on to apply for apprenticeship vacancies with the companies they have worked with.
Other ways in which businesses can support students are:
- Careers talks
- CV workshops
- Participation in Futures Evening
You can contact Mrs Gawthorn for further information.