School partnership helps shift students’ careers into gear

A new partnership between NK Motors and a Derbyshire school is helping SEND students explore future careers and discover the opportunities available in the automotive industry.

The partnership with Brackenfield School, in Long Eaton, was forged after NK Motors’ dealer principal, Simon Murdock, met Helen Diggle, the school’s transition and employment manager and careers adviser, at a careers fair earlier this year.

After learning how valuable employer engagement is for Brackenfield’s SEND students, NK Motors created a three-week programme to build confidence and showcase the wide range of opportunities within the automotive industry.

Simon launched the initiative in November with a visit to the school.

He shared his own career journey and explained that the school environment did not play to his strengths.

Instead of taking the traditional college or university route, he found his path through hands-on experience and a positive mindset.

He spoke about the importance of mindset and positivity, encouraging students to “dream big” and reminded them that fulfilling careers exist outside academic routes.

Students then took part in a Q&A, asking about the different roles involved in running a dealership.

Later that month, 15 students visited NK Motors’ Chilwell dealership for a behind-the-scenes look at how the business operates, meeting staff across sales, service and support roles and gaining a clear picture of the teamwork and skills required in a modern dealership.

The final session took place on 27 November back at Brackenfield School, where Simon revealed the results of the “Future Career” drawing competition.

Students were asked to draw what they want to do when they leave school, or if they are unsure, something that makes them happy.

The standard was so high that Simon chose four winners rather than one.

Simon said: “It was a privilege to spend time with the students at Brackenfield School.

“I wanted to show the students that there are still brilliant opportunities available if they approach life with the right mindset.

“The automotive industry offers fulfilling, hands-on careers, from valeting to service administers, and everyone has to start somewhere.

“The students were engaged, ambitious and incredibly creative, and I absolutely loved spending time with them and encouraging them in their future careers. I’m looking forward to continuing the partnership next year.”

Sanj Kumar, managing director at NK Motors, said: “Brackenfield School offers an outstanding level of support to its students, and we’re proud to help them explore what their futures could look like.

“The enthusiasm shown throughout the programme has been remarkable and we look forward to building on this partnership and offering even more opportunities next year.”