Partner Article

Newcastle College students STEP up

Local businesses are set to benefit as Newcastle College School of Art and Design pairs students with companies through the ShellSTEP programme.

The nationally recognised project is the only one of its kind in the north. It aims to help small and medium size enterprises by giving students the opportunity to work with them during the summer on year-long placements.

Developed by Shell UK in conjunction with Entrust, Shell STEP is a social investment programme that focuses on helping young people to develop skills and achieve their potential. The programme is available throughout the UK and is delivered via a partnership of Enterprise Agencies, Colleges, Universities and other Business Support organisations.

In recent years, the programme has helped organisations complete a range of projects. These include investigating new services, researching and developing new products, launching e-commerce and interactive websites, building bespoke software and streamlining administration processes.

Mike Wheaton, Manager for Employer Engagement at Newcastle College School of Art and Design, said: “This is a big coup for Newcastle College and our students. The Shell STEP programme is a great way for the students to gain experience within their industry and give them a head start in their careers. We are all excited about launching the scheme.”

Shell STEP Manager, Melanie Powell said: “We are currently looking for businesses that could benefit from working with someone with a fresh, innovative approach and boundless enthusiasm.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .