Inspiring the future workforce

Friars Academy

Ensafe consultants, a specialist health and safety and asbestos service provider to some of the biggest businesses in the UK, has worked with Northamptonshire schools to inspire the future workforce for the past four years.

“Passionate about inspiring the next generation”

Greg Kirkman, Managing Director, wanted to join SEMLEP’s Enterprise Adviser Network after reflecting on his own children’s routes into employment:

“With two sons of my own with completely different learning styles and career paths, I could see how difficult it must be for teachers to get across to students what the ‘world of work’ is really like, and what we as employers are looking for in our prospective employees.”

 “A hugely rewarding and eye-opening experience”

Since getting involved, Greg has participated in a number of careers activities including assemblies, classroom talks and mock interviews which has led to a positive impact on his own business.

“Each time has been hugely rewarding and a genuine eye-opener as to the level of enthusiasm and good ideas from the pool of talent we have in our schools.”

“There are bright, willing, able and engaged young people out there that want to find out more about local careers. It’s down to us as business leaders to inspire them.”

“Staff were engaged and visibly uplifted”

From engaging with local schools and colleges, Greg found that within his business there has been a strong morale boost.

“We hosted eight students for a day during their careers week and found that all of our staff were engaged and visibly uplifted by their presence. It was amazing to host young people eager to learn and that were genuinely interested in the careers within our business.”

Alongside this, Greg has used this insight into the future workforce to develop and adapt his recruitment processes. He has aligned and designed his strategies to appeal to the next generation. “It’s vital to ensure that my business is a relevant, exciting and inviting place for the next generation to want to work”

What would your advice be for another SME thinking of giving an hour?

Young people who receive 4 or more employer encounters whilst at school/college are significantly less likely to become not in education, employment or training (NEET) and will on average, earn more over their career.

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