BMET’s scheme offers pupils insight into the world of work
BIRMINGHAM Metropolitan College (BMET) has teamed up with professional services firms in an attempt to tackle the region’s skills shortage.
BMET’s head of school services Sue Timms has devised a partnership programme “In-Sights Into” to address the issue.
Her strategy is to devise targeted programmes for key business sectors, including professional services, healthcare, digital and media, construction and property, retail and hospitality, allowing youngsters to gain first-hand experience of potential employers, whilst they make crucial subject and career choices.
“Most young people are keen to develop the skills they need for a successful career. At the same time, most employers want to be able to recruit skilled employees who can help them to grow and prosper. However, at the moment, the system doesn’t always work. We want to do something to change that,” she said.
“At year ten level, we’re aiming to help pupils understand what different jobs will offer them, and what skills, qualifications and attitudes they’ll be expected to have, so they can make informed decisions about their future.
“All too often, youngsters have only started to seriously consider their career options, after taking their A-levels and in some cases, their degrees. We are also targeting year 12 students, and trying to give them insights into their choices regarding colleges and university.”
The launch event involved KPMG, Shoosmiths, RBS, BranchMartinSpicer and Glide Utilities and almost 70 students from Harborne Academy, Broadway School and Plantsbrook Secondary School and VI Form College.
