The great careers insights continue with Fire, Police and Inspiration
EmployabilityUK’s exciting partnership with Coventry Building Society continues with more than 80 employee volunteers involved in bringing their knowledge and expertise to almost 100 students from six secondary schools in Coventry.
The programme continues with a series of presentations for all schools participating in the programme from a range of professionals from many different backgrounds and organisations.
Over the past couple of weeks, Students have heard about management and team building techniques from educationalist and industry expert John Dooner, they learned about the work of the only female member of the Technical Rescue Team in West Midlands Fire Service, got inspiration and tips from Todd from Spaghetti Agency and were impressed by the career pathway of Warren Little from West Midlands Police.
Claire delivered a thoughtful, in-depth account of her pathway to her current role as a member of a small team of highly-skilled people that are involved in major incidents and national and international catastrophes. Claire’s all-female audience were enchanted by her and her achievements and there was a lot of debate about the value of stepping well outside the comfort zone and being female in a traditionally male role.
The second of our two speakers from West Midlands Police was Detective Chief Inspector Warren Little who delivered an inspirational talk to students about his career with the police and the challenges he encountered during his work as an Army officer.
Warren said:
“I believe it is important that young people understand that the choices they make whilst in education will have a significant impact on their future careers. It is therefore essential that they gather as much information as possible about career opportunities, options and pathways so informed choices can be made. One of the best ways for young people to do this is to speak with, and most importantly question, practitioners form a variety of careers and professions to help them make these decisions about their future.”
Detective Chief Inspector Warren Little inspires students at Ernesford Grange Academy with examples of how a career path can involve trying new and challenging things
Our series of motivational talks concluded at Sidney Stringer Academy, where Todd from Spaghetti Agency explained how his life had taken lots of twists and turns, but he has always grabbed opportunities as they presented themselves, resulting in him facing every day doing a job he loves.
Todd said:
“I think it’s invaluable for students to hear from real people in the community and the business world. There’s nothing like hearing stories, lessons and advice from people who’ve applied their knowledge and passion to create something they’re proud to talk about. Students can be inspired by talks so they know they can achieve anything they set their mind to. We’ve always learnt from storytelling and I believe it’s important to listen to as many stories as you can.”
We would like to thank the following people for their continuing support for our programme:
- Coventry Building Society
- Chief Superintendent Danny Long
- John Dooner
- Claire Murphy
- Detective Chief Inspector Warren Little
- Graham Todd
And, as always our Trustees, Team and many other advisors, friends and volunteers that continue to help us to make it happen.
For more information about the pioneering work EmployabilityUK is doing in schools with Coventry Building Society and other partners, visit us at: www.employabilityuk.org or contact diane.vernon@employabilityuk.org or call 0345 601 5551.
