Two ambitious students have spent a week at the University of Cumbria to gain insight into life on its Barrow campus.
The students, from Ulverston Victoria High School and Dallam School, were taking part in the Dream Placement scheme.
They met staff from across the university, from senior leadership teams, including Professor Brian Webster-Henderson OBE, Deputy Vice Chancellor, to academic staff and professional services, learning how different departments work together to support students and the wider community.
The experience combines both academic and practical elements, offering insight into professional working life as well as the day-to-day realities of university study.
The placement is designed to build confidence in professional environments while helping participants develop a stronger understanding of their personal strengths and values.
It broadens awareness of career pathways and opportunities, inspires young people to set meaningful goals for their futures, and encourages independent thinking and leadership. For many students, this experience represents their first step into a professional workplace.
Dream Placement is a six-month programme delivered across Cumbria for young people aged 16-18 by the Centre for Leadership Performance.
It brings together businesses and young people to provide meaningful development opportunities.
For many participants, the highlight of the programme is a week-long industry placement during February half-term, where leadership is seen in action and future career prospects become clearer.
Sarah Glass, director at the Centre for Leadership Performance, said: “We are thrilled that our Dream Placement business partners are helping to fund our mission led work to develop and invest in Cumbria’s future leaders.
“Dream Placement is a unique collaboration between CforLP, local businesses and educators to help showcase to young people the breath of opportunities across Cumbria.
“Ensuring young people have access to these sorts of life changing meaningful opportunities to see leadership in the work place, make connections with future employers and help them make informed decisions about their next steps, whilst igniting aspirations and building confidence and leadership skills throughout this six-month process.”
Jack Todd, student recruitment and outreach officer at University of Cumbria, added: “It was a real pleasure to welcome the students to our Barrow campus as part of the Dream Placement programme.
“Opportunities like this give young people invaluable insight into both university and professional life, while allowing us to highlight the wide range of roles and experiences that contribute to our vibrant academic community.
“We are proud to support initiatives that build confidence and help develop the future talent of Cumbria.”
