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Business and schools alliance to open door into work for pupils

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership is pioneering a new national network linking schools with business leaders to give pupils the best possible chance of success in the rapidly changing world of work.

Around 20 secondary schools and colleges from Northumberland to County Durham are forming powerful alliances with local business leaders, to help shape their future careers engagement work and better meet the demands of employers.

The Enterprise Adviser Network matches high quality senior business volunteers with local schools.

Together they are working to refine the way schools interact with business, examine their enterprise strategy and plug any gaps.

North East LEP Enterprise Co-ordinator Denis Heaney is leading the project for the region delivering key elements of the LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan.

Denis said: “The world of work is changing and the enterprise advisers will guide schools and colleges to help create a strategy for careers, enterprise and employer engagement.”

Northumberland oil and gas engineering specialist Arefco has linked with the neighbouring Northumberland Church of England Academy in Ashington.

Gary Burton, Managing Director of Arefco, which design and manufacture high precision components, is looking forward to working with the school as its Enterprise Adviser.

Mark Fox, Careers Adviser at the Northumberland Church of England Academy, said: “Arefco attend our World of Work Days during National Careers Week and go to great lengths to bring examples of equipment and machinery they use to make their products, bringing their work to life.”

The Enterprise Adviser Network reflects new Government policy relating to careers. The programme is being co-ordinated at a national level through the Careers and Enterprise Company.

We are keen to hear from business leaders who feel they would be able to offer their expertise to helping a school within the North East LEP area. Think you fit the bill? Contact Denis Heany.