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North East LEP moves to shape region's future workforce

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is spearheading the formation of a network of Enterprise Advisers who will work in partnership with the region’s secondary schools to help shape careers provision for pupils.

Denis Heaney, Enterprise Co-ordinator at the North East LEP, is leading the project. Here, he explains how the region’s business sector can help to bridge the gap between education and the world of work.

“Enterprise Advisers are leading figures from the North East business community who work on a voluntary basis with senior management teams and head teachers in schools and colleges to ensure that all our young people can successfully identify routes into working life,“ explained Denis.

“Our Enterprise Advisers will offer their expertise and work in partnership with an individual school or college, making close links between education and industry and helping to make sure that careers provision in our schools fits with what businesses really need from their future employees.“

The North East LEP has already paired a number of business people with schools and is now seeking more Enterprise Advisers to work with schools located all across the North East, from Berwick to Durham.

The North East project is part of the national voluntary Enterprise Advisor Network which reflects new Government careers policy. The programme is being co-ordinated at a national level through the Careers and Enterprise Company.

“This is an opportunity for companies to make a real difference to young people’s lives by helping to guide their career prospects,“ said Denis. “We want people to bring their industry knowledge into our schools and colleges and really put it to use, helping young people make a successful transition into the world of work.“

“We’ve already matched a number of Enterprise Advisers with schools and we are seeking more people to sign up to the scheme. We’ve had a fantastic response from schools and colleges who are keen to forge strong links with businesses in their local areas so there are opportunities ready and waiting for business leaders to get involved with.

“The potential benefits on both sides are immense,“ said Denis. “We know that by strengthening links between schools and businesses we can make sure pupils are better prepared to enter the workplace and that their prospects are bright. We also know that the scheme can result in a future workforce which has the skills and knowledge our industries require and we can also make students aware of the job opportunities which await them in the North East.

“If you are a passionate, successful leader and believe you could inspire the young people of our region, you should absolutely get involved with this project.“

Find out how to apply to become and Enterprise Adviser at www.northeastlep.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by North East LEP .