Wiltshire Council is recruiting volunteers who can help schools bridge the gap between careers lessons and the world of work.
Inspirational leaders from businesses and other organisations are needed to serve as Enterprise Advisers, working with teachers and students to offer advice, guidance and practical help on the tricky transition from education to employment.
The senior volunteers from business will help to
- motivate and inspire young people
- broaden horizons and inform independent choice
- raise aspirations and help young people achieve more
- prepare future employees for the workplace
- strengthen links between the local business community and schools and colleges
Kevin Bell, site operations manager at Wavin Ltd in Chippenham, is an Enterprise Advisor. He said: “It is an honour for me. I can use my business experience to help local schools and colleges look at their own strategy towards student’s futures in the working environment. It also allows me to support younger people who need some guidance with their own career paths, giving them the view of employing people from an employer’s perspective.”
Laura Mayes, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for education, said: “This is a fabulous project that has the potential to make a huge difference for the futures of countless young people in the county. I know that the advisers themselves get a great deal of satisfaction from their time in schools, and we would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved.”
The network of volunteers is run by Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council in partnership with the Swindon & Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership.
Clusters of schools, colleges and enterprise advisers are supported by a full-time coordinator who brings together the schools, colleges and employers.
People wanting to volunteer or find out more can email Nicola.Randy@wiltshire.gov.uk
