College teams help school students prepare for the future

Derby College Group has reported that its outreach work is continuing to go from strength-to-strength – and that it now works with the majority of schools across Derbyshire.

The college’s Schools Liaison team and Apprenticeship Recruitment team collectively help school students get ready for the next stage of their education.

They give an insight into what it’s like to study at the college, providing in-depth information on the range of vocational courses on offer.

For teachers and parents or carers, the team gives expert advice on applications and the right education path to choose.

The teams work together visiting schools to do assemblies, open evenings and bespoke sessions.

In addition, the School Liaison team coordinates numerous additional activities including mock interviews and tours.

According to Derby College Group, its teams now work with more than 70% of Derbyshire schools, including special schools.

Recently, Lara Knifton, the college’s apprenticeship recruitment and customer service manager, and Steve Elliott, head of technology apprenticeships, visited Kirk Hallam Academy at Ilkeston to speak at an assembly.

Amanda Cartwright, the academy’s careers co-ordinator, said: “While representing Derby College in such a positive capacity, it was great to hear Lara and Steve talk so passionately with a view to inspiring our students regarding their futures, and what it might take to reach them in addition to broadening horizons and seeing the world outside of the classroom.

“I have had some really positive feedback. Students have been asking about specific career routes.”

Lara said: “The collaboration between apprenticeship programmes and schools is invaluable in providing students with a well-rounded information, so they can make informed choices.

“Working with the teachers and staff it helps the students understand the necessary theoretical knowledge and also offers practical, hands-on experience, preparing them for successful careers.”