March Neale-Wade Academy pupils find out about life in the workplace at skills day

Neale-Wade Academy skills day (Image: Archant)

The day comprised of a series of workshops in the morning allowing the students to gain a better understanding of the key employability skills businesses are looking for.

In the afternoon the students had the opportunity to practice some of the techniques they learn by participating in mock interviews.

About 30 business volunteers from local businesses including: Caterpillar, ARU, 20twentyproductions, NHS

Advancing Business People, WATA, 3B, CUB, Office Manager, NWA, ROI Distribution, 3aaa, Smurfitt Kappa, Allpress farms, Community Governor, The Skills Service, Business in the Community, Circle Housing, Cambridgeshire County Council, The Skills Service, The Light, Wisbech

Jason Wing, academy principal said: “Employability days are an essential part of a well-rounded education. We are delighted to work with our external business partners Smurfit Kappa and Business in the Community to offer such a valuable opportunity for our students.

Emma Nederpel from Cambridgeshire County Council said: “It was a real pleasure meeting with the students and it was great to see the confidence that the students brought to interview. It was also lovely to hear about their future career paths and great to see their ambition.” “

Hayliegh Beckles, education manager, business in the community said: “Employers have a key role to play in inspiring young people about the world of work and we actively encourage our Business Class Partners to deliver this type of activity through their partnerships. The Employability Skills Day is a great initiative that enables local businesses to meet directly with young people and talk about the different career pathways available to them. This is just one example of how skills and resources from within local employers are being shared with schools to support young people across Cambridgeshire.”