College link up extends CBI’s classroom programme
THE CBI is to expand its Business in the Classroom programme after signing a deal with Birmingham Metropolitan College which will provide management support for the iniative.
The business organisation said the added resources would enable the roll out of the programme, which fosters links between companies and schools, across the West Midlands and Oxfordshire region.
So far, the programme has resulted in some 35 partnerships between businesses and schools being established, benefitting more than 500 students.
John Russell, chairman of CBI West Midlands said: “The agreement with Birmingham Metropolitan College will mean that even more young people will get a taste of the world of work by allowing Business in the Classroom to be rolled out across the region.
“The enthusiasm of the businesses, schools and students involved in the programme has made it a huge success so far.
“The young people involved are better able to understand the needs of businesses and are developing valuable employability skills which will be vital for their future careers. Meanwhile, businesses feel they are making a real difference by helping address the region’s skills gap.”
The initiative also places a strong focus on the importance of science, technology, engineering and maths skills.
Dr Christine Braddock principal of Birmingham Metropolitan College, said: “I am delighted we are partnering the CBI in this initiative involving schools. This provides a great opportunity for young people at a very early age to see how important entrepreneurship and business skills are. Involvement with employers brings many positive results. Business in the Classroom supports this development, which will be now enhanced further by the expertise of Birmingham Metropolitan College.”
Businesses who take part in Business in the Classroom include Manganese Bronze, Ricoh UK Products, Cookson Precious Metals, Jaguar Land Rover, Severn Trent, GVA, Aga Rangemaster and Freestyle Interactive. Some 35 partnerships have been created since the programme’s launch in September 2008.
