Preparing Birmingham students for the Future of Work

We had a fantastic time at Birmingham City Academy yesterday, working with Birmingham City Council, ELSA and several businesses to provide careers advice and support for Year 10 students.

ELSA’s “Get Work Ready” programmes consist of hands-on workshops that bring students and businesses together with the aim of introducing students to the application processes used by hiring companies, allowing them a real glimpse into what it is that employers look for.

ELSA works with young people in both mainstream and specialist education, delivering workshops which encourage debate, discussion, honesty and aspirational pathways, all aimed to increase self-esteem and self-worth.

The Birmingham City Academy students took part in a variety of fun team challenges (including the human knot!) and individual activities, such as interview practice.  We  were very impressed by their enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Their behaviour was exemplary, they engaged fully in almost every activity and tried their very best, despite often being pushed out of their regular comfort zones. Students that, we were told, often refuse to present in front of their peers, seized the opportunity given to them and presented with confidence.

The Rainmaker team would like to extend a big thank you to all the volunteers from Birmingham City Council, Socitm Advisory, Brewin Dolphin and Computacenter.

We’re all determined to empower these young people and make a real difference for Birmingham students and their futures!

To find out more about the “Get Work Ready” programmes, please email: jane@elsa.education.