Research from the Education and Employers Taskforce shows that a young person who has four or more meaningful encounters with an employer is 86% less likely to be unemployed or not in education or training and can earn up to 22% more during their career.

The 2016 Education and Skills Survey reported “a gap between education and the preparation people need for their future,” as well as “a gap between the skills needed and those people have”. Employer encounters help address these gaps in skills and knowledge.

We are extremely pleased to already be working with so many businesses and providers in the Plymouth and South Devon area. These include Babcock, Marjon University, Princess Yachts, University of Plymouth, NHS, Bicton Dickinson, Plymouth City College, Plymouth City Council, Building Plymouth, The Army, Navy and RAF, and many, many more. They have supported our students by:

Look to the Future Fair

This is an annual event, where employers and providers attend and provide advice and guidance on what skills and qualification will help the students achieve their goals and aspirations.

Work Experience

All students in years 10 and 12 participate in a work placement with an employer. During that week the employer provides them with a variety of experiences so that they can 'try before they buy' into that career.

Careers Carousels

Employers and/or university students create a 'speed dating' event to enable groups of students to find out more about their job. This type of quick activity not only increases the students' communication skills and their confidence, but ensures students ask the questions they really want to know about; usually 'how much money can I earn'!

Guest Speakers

Businesses and providers attend the school, either in person or virtually, and share their experiences either of their career life or of their business. This is followed by a question and answer session to enable the students to find out more about their areas of interest.

How can you help?

If you could help increase our students knowledge or raise the aspirations of our students by taking part in any events, or offering a work placement we would love to hear from you. Please contact our Careers Lead, Mrs Arkell (maria.arkell@plymptonacademy.tsat.uk). We would also appreciate any feedback on this page or any engagement you have been involved with.