Member Article

Barnsley post 16 careers event attracts hundreds

Almost 1,000 pupils, parents and carers attended an event in Barnsley to discover the post 16 progression pathways available after leaving school.

Organised by Business in the Community (BITC) on behalf of Barnsley Council, the annual “I Know I Can” Ambition Barnsley event enabled local teenagers to find out more about life after year 11 and the pathways available to them in Barnsley and surrounding areas.

The event reinforces Barnsley Council’s commitment in going above and beyond to support pupils, young people and their families.

480 pupils from Barnsley schools, Springwell, Kirk Balk, Darton College, Greenacre School, Netherwood ALC, Holy Trinity, Dearne ALC, Barnsley Academy and Horizon Community College met representatives from 38 education and training providers as well as local businesses. A twilight session for parents and carers attracted more than 500 attendees.

David Fallis, a teacher at Springwell Community School, said: “The Ambition Barnsley day was essential to providing an insight into the options available post 16 and helped young people realise why the exams they will sit in six months are vital to their future. Pupils were able to engage with education and training providers to see what they can achieve.”

Michelle Wilson, business development executive at Ede Training Solutions, said: “We had the opportunity to engage with young people and ensure they understand the options available to them before leaving school. Providing them with this knowledge helps them make a decision which will best benefit their future.”

Mayor of Barnsley, Councillor Tim Shepherd, who talked to school students and providers during the day, added: “It is encouraging to see so many training and education providers, offering real prospects to young people; from careers in social housing, traditional apprenticeships and sport progression training.”

I Know I Can will be running the IKIC Industry Day on Wednesday 4 February 2015 to provide young people with knowledge about the types of employment opportunities open to young people in Barnsley and the surrounding areas, if you would like your company to be involved in the IKIC Industry Day, or any other future initiatives such as mentoring or providing inspirational speeches to Barnsley young people, then please contact ikicchallenges@barnsley.gov.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Business In the Community .