Work Related Learning Event Programmes

• Work Related Learning Programmes
• Preparing For Work Experience
  (Year 10)
• Pathways To Employment
  (Years 10, 11, 12, 13)
• Enterprise and Business Planning
  The Salon (Years 9, 10, 11)
• Sixth Form Induction
  (Years 12 and 13)
• Citizenship – A Day of Democracy
  (Years 8, 9, 10)

Format of Events

Each event may be tailor made to meet the schools objectives. An event can be delivered in a range of formats and can last anything from half a day to two full days. For whole year groups the most suitable format is that of a conference type event lasting one or two days, depending on the number of students involved. A pre-event planning meeting would be arranged to discuss the best option for each school.

The event would have a designated leader who would introduce the theme of the event and the exercises. The students work in teams on practical tasks in order that they are fully involved. Working with these teams may be a team adviser, a representative of the world of work or business community who will act as both a facilitator and a role model. They will guide the students in their activities, be a catalyst for discussion and help develop their ideas.

Whatever the theme of the event, students are introduced to ideas, challenged to discuss and explore issues and given the opportunity to tackle work related tasks e.g. working as a team, preparing presentations, being a team leader, negotiating, communicating, planning and organising, managing time, solving problems and making decisions. The key emphasis is on learning through action.

Employer Engagement as Team Advisers

During the course of a Work Related School Event, each team of students works closely throughout the day with a member of the business community who serves as role model and Team Adviser. Students, guided by their team advisers improve their leadership, team building and interpersonal communication skills through case studies, role plays and simulations. The team adviser's brief is to guide the students in their activities, to be a catalyst of discussion and to challenge their ideas.

Benefits to the students of Employer Engagement:

• Team Advisers will be from as wide a range of local businesses as possible
• Direct contact with employed adults with a wide range of experience
• A training ratio of approx 1: 10 in which to ask questions, receive encouragement, guidance and support
• Students will have a better understanding of employers' requirements
• Development of personal skills and an introduction to a new way of learning
• An opportunity to consider 'their future' and after school options

Benefits to the Team Advisers organisations (Employers)

• Direct contact with school leavers to develop an understanding of their needs and aspirations and to promote your organisation to future employees
• Contribute to corporate social responsibility policies
• Raise the profile of your organisation in the local community
• Contact with educationalists to understand pre-vocational training qualifications
• Provides an opportunity for industry and the business world to be involved with the curriculum and making it relevant to their needs
• Free personal development for your staff e.g. management skills, team leading skills, managing diversity, understanding / supporting the new recruit, communication skills, interpersonal skills and facilitation skills
• Give something back to the community - on both personal and corporate levels