St Margaret’s Academy (SMA) in Aigburth launches ‘work inspiration’ programme which will include talks from industry professionals.

Year 10 students at SMA will be given a glimpse into the world of work, as they prepare to choose their future career paths.

The ‘work inspiration’ programme will deliver weekly careers talks from industry professionals and will see students take part in a series of half day placements in the new year.

The new initiative launched this week, as representatives from Career Connect and Kaplan Skills and Employment led the first in a series of careers talks to prepare students for the world of work.

These weekly sessions will deliver key information on selected vocational options, including apprenticeships, media and journalism, and the armed forces.

Delivered in conjunction with Liverpool Compact Education Business Partnership, students will embark upon their chosen placements from February 2017.

After an initial interview process, students will take part in an Information Advice and Guidance session in school to develop interview techniques and receive key advice on making a good impression and how to manage employer expectations.

This placement process aims to give students the opportunity to grow in their role, develop their responsibility and get a real insight into working life over an extended period of time.

Greg McLean, careers manager at SMA, says:

“In such a highly competitive job market, it is vital students have all of the necessary tools to help them achieve their career aspirations. Whether this be through gaining a university degree, or through embarking upon a vocational course or apprenticeship scheme, we want to make sure that all of our pupils have the right skillset to help them progress and succeed.”

Chris Cooke, assistant director of Sixth Form and UCAS co-ordinator, adds:

“Having the right industry experience will help students develop their employability skills and I am delighted that so many industry professionals have been able to offer their support. I am confident that the ‘work inspiration programme’ will help students focus on where they want to be and give them the determination to get there.”