14 pupils from years 7-9 had an amazing experience at In-Comm in Aldridge. In-Comm is the largest engineering apprenticeship training provider in the area that specialises in manufacturing and mechanical engineering. The pupils got to meet the employers that fund the apprenticeship placements, had a tour of the facility, and took part in an engineering challenge. Pupils also learnt about what apprenticeships are, and the benefits of doing them.

We’ve had a busy two days at Bloxwich for careers events. Monday was the first Aspire to HE session for some of our Year 8 students. In collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton, these sessions are designed to upskill pupils, raise their aspirations, and encourage them to consider University when they’re older. Tuesday was the first Stem Like Us session for some of our Year 9 students. These mentoring sessions hope to encourage pupils to consider a career involving science, technology, engineering and maths.

Year 11 pupils had a fantastic time at the National School and College Leavers’ Festival at the NEC. More than 120 employers, universities, and training providers attended, showcasing apprenticeships, higher education, and employment options. Students were able to engage face-to-face with post-16 providers, gaining insights and inspiration for their future career decisions and goals.

Today we worked with fifteen Year 10 students during the STEM Like Us Employability Workshop. This two-hour session focused on developing key employability skills through one-to-one mentoring. Activities included CV Development, Cover Letter Writing and Interview Preparation. The session was highly successful, and students should be proud of the effort and results they achieved.

Thirty Year 10 pupils had their third “Future Thinking” session run by Wolverhampton University to encourage pupils to consider higher education. Today’s session was on Growth Mindset and having a positive approach to challenges

Year 11 students had an assembly today on the post-16 provision available at Walsall College. Pupils learnt about the facilities available, and the different pathways they can choose, including apprenticeships. A big thank you to Barr Beacon, Wednesfield, and Walsall College for recently delivering these assemblies and helping our pupils choose their next steps.

A big thank you to Kim Evans from Walsall Council for delivering an assembly to our Year 11 pupils on how to write a good CV. Pupils received lots of useful tips and will be able to use these to help them in writing their future job applications.

On Wednesday 10th September, Year 10 pupils had the fantastic opportunity to be introduced to Sophie Fenner, Engagement Office for West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.

Pupils had the role explained to them and how to apply for the role. Every 2 years, 2 pupils in the area can join the team.

As a Youth Commissioner you can be asked to do the following:
• Consult young people on the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.
• Speak directly with the Police and Crime Commissioner, police officers and decision makers, raising issues affecting young people including community safety, youth justice, victim services and crime prevention.
• Engage and consult with other young people in their local communities and listen to their views.
• Hold West Midlands Police to account for the service they provide for young people.
• Build relationships with police and break down barriers that exist between officers and young people.

If any pupil in years 9-11 are interested in the role, please use the link below.

If you have any questions, please speak to Miss Williamson

https://secure.cesvotes.com/V3-3-0/YouthCommissioner/en/login?bbp=111198&x=-1

Today, Year 10 pupils took part in an interview skills day run by the University of Wolverhampton. Firstly, pupils learnt how to present themselves with tips including how to give a good handshake. They then learnt how to answer interview questions effectively following the STARR method, where pupils have to reinforce their answers with examples and the impact of what they did.