Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group AeroAcademy and Ridgeons hosted students from six different schools at two separate events, arranged by the Cambridge Area 14-19 Partnership (CAP). The events were designed for students who are eager to get into work following their GCSEs but don't yet have a job to go to.
A range of speakers from both companies, including former apprentices, introduced various aspects of getting a job, such as how to build a c.v. or complete a job application form. The students learned about the skills and personal qualities that employers are looking for when they recruit and took part in activities to think about how they can demonstrate those skills. At the Ridgeons event they also heard an inspiring talk from David Smart, managing director of Softwerx, about his own career journey and how to make a good impression in the workplace. David employs apprentices in his business on Granta Park.
At the Marshall event students were given the chance to speak to some of the company’s current engineering apprentices about their experiences. They were also shown the fantastic workshop where the apprentices learn the basic skills required before they begin to work with skilled staff on aircraft and military equipment at Cambridge Airport.
New government policy requires students to continue in education or training until they’re 17, so these students were given advice on apprenticeships by Howard Cordingley of Cambridge Regional College. Apprenticeships are an ideal way to work and gain the skills and qualifications to support future prospects.
All of the students who took part said they thought the events would help them get a job. One student said: “Getting the chance to talk directly to bosses and the apprentices has really helped me learn what work is all about.”
Rebecca Mason, HR Manager, Ridgeons said: “The Ridgeons Group is always keen to support the local community particularly educational development. If we can share our knowledge and experience to enable the students to secure their first career step, we will have achieved one of the aims of CAP.”
Pam Lord, of Marshall AeroAcademy said: “We are very happy to have been asked to support this event. It is so important that young people learn about the opportunities that are open to them after they leave school. We hope the students went away with a few new ideas as to how to make that transition into the world of work.”
Anne Bailey, CAP’s Employer Links Coordinator, said: “Learning about the world of work directly from employers is so valuable. I’m sure these events will have given these students a new focus on how to approach their job search and more confidence in knowing what they need to do.”
CAP is building links between employers and the schools and colleges in the Cambridge area to help students learn about future careers and improve their employability. Employers who would like to get involved can visit www.cambridgeareapartnership.org.uk or email [email protected].
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For more information:
Anne Bailey, Cambridge Area 14-19 Partnership, 07545 696547
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