Walsall pupils learn about world of work

Five local academies – Willenhall E-Act Academy, Bloxwich Academy, Joseph Leckie Academy, Ormiston Shelfield Community Academy and Blue Coat Academy - have joined forces with Walsall Council Children's Services and the Borough's Education Business Partnership (EBP).

The initiative has been introduced to help students understand the world of work and training events will encourage them to gain the right experience, skills and a 'can do' attitude that make them the best candidates for the job.

The first event held at Willenhall E-Act Academy last month, was well received and proved popular with students.

David Haley, executive director of Walsall Children's Services said: "These advice and guidance sessions help students make the right decisions about their future.

"Making the right choices early on in the young person's educational journey gives them an achievable goal, leads to better career options and enhanced life choices.

"It's important that young people have context of where their choices can lead them. At this stage in their lives they often recognise and understand what a 'core business' actually is, but might not realise the range of professions that support them.

This week was the turn of Bloxwich Academy - where young people got a bird's eye view of the range professions and careers available through local businesses, both large and small.

Representatives from Walsall Housing Group, NHS, 'Steps to Work' and both Walsall College and WACC were out in force to provide encouragement , and practical career guidance.

Richard Farmer, manager at EBP added: "We work directly with local businesses and employers to get young people from across the Borough and beyond 'work ready.'

"Our academy workshops and IAG training therefore fits in with their specific business needs yet is still pitched correctly for young people.!

For further information on Walsall EBP go to www.WalsallEBP.co.uk