[S]t Benedict’s Catholic High School are continuing their work with local employers in order to develop their students’ skills & education.
A conference was held last week, involving middle leaders from the school, and various local employers including NDA, React Engineering, Graham Construction, James Fisher Nuclear, Gen 2, Morgan Sindall and Sellafield.
The aim of the session was to develop employer projects delivered within the whole curriculum in addition to those in STEM subjects.
Karen Kelso, Assistant Headteacher at the school comments: “We have been overwhelmed by the support many local employers have shown for working in partnership with us and our students. These projects develop confidence and stimulate our students’ passion for learning. We look forward to seeing how employer engagement develops across our whole curriculum.”
The school wants to make learning enjoyable and relevant, whilst ensuring the students are supported in attaining their goals for academic and career progression. Students, whilst having a rigorous academic education, will also have the opportunity to develop other skills including:
- Creativity and innovation
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Drive and ambition
- Entrepreneurship
- Resilience
- Teamwork and leadership skills
Beccy Pleasant, the Head of Talent & Skills at NDA, gave a presentation opening the session, explaining the local employment opportunities over the next few years and about a variety of pathways into these careers. She said of the event: “It was a great opportunity to talk through the opportunities in our sector for young people, and to work with teachers to explore how we can best support and enhance the school curriculum to help prepare young people for the world of work. Within a short space of time we were able to come up with a range of possible ways that industry and education can work together.”
Katie Harper, Business Connector from Business in the Community, explained how she had already worked on two projects with the school, and how that had worked from the employers’ perspective. She comments: “It was fantastic to be involved in the session last week. The teachers have some great ideas to motivate the pupils by showing them how the curriculum is relevant to life and careers. My experience of working with business representatives is they are keen to be involved, to build confidence and help young people develop.”
It is hoped the discussions will emerge as mini projects within the classroom next school year.
