Member Article

Partnership service boost for Stockport students and businesses

An exciting new initiative is launching in Stockport to support local students on their journey into the workplace.

The Gander programme, which is being led by the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, will be bringing education and business together to work in partnership.

Gander aims to recruit local companies and business people, to engage with students from three local colleges; Aquinas, Stockport and Cheadle & Marple, providing insight into different aspects of industry and helping them gain experience and understanding.

There is currently a strong focus nationally on helping college leavers to make informed choices for their future and the Gander programme aims to support this in Stockport, building on the many great examples that already exist.

For many students the chance to understand the range and diversity of local business opportunities will be unique and it is hoped that many fruitful partnerships will develop.

Brian Bradley from Clarke Nicklin Accountants, who is the new Stockport President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, launched the Gander programme at this week’s Stockport Business Expo, where he outlined the benefits for business in supporting the future employees, entrepreneurs and leaders of the local business community.

Brian said: “We are calling for the business community of Stockport to engage with the scheme, provide an insight to their industry and connect with a potential workforce of tomorrow right here on their doorstep.”

The programme, which is supported by Stockport Council, will use a web-based matching process, with companies registering their support across five categories, including career support, mentoring & business presentations.

The colleges will be able to post specific requests for support and these will be matched appropriately to those interested companies by sector, ensuring that the process delivers focused and appropriate support.

Any company or individual interested in supporting the Gander programme in Stockport, can register via the website at www.gandercareers.com and can keep informed on progress via Twitter at @gandercareers.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by James Welton .