Gatsby Benchmark 5

Encounters with employers and employees

Every pupil will have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace. This will be through a range of enrichment activities including visiting speakers, mentoring and enterprise schemes. 

Below are a number of encounters our pupils have had with employers and talking to employees

Annual Career Fair

All of our pupils in years 7 - 11 at Outwood Academy Hindley, had the opportunity to participate in a Careers Fair on the 13 th December. They were able to speak to a range of colleges and employers and ask questions relating to future pathways. In addition to our local colleges we were supported by; Electricity North West, V+T Photomagic Ltd, University of Bolton, Edge Hill University, National Health Service, Liverpool Museums and Art Galleries, The Army, The Royal Air Force, Wigan Warriors, Wigan Athletic, Greater Manchester Police, Wigan Council, The Fire Service, Resilient Pilot, The National Grid, McLaren, The Prison Service, Bex Finance, Arnold Clarke, BT Openreach, Virtual Reality Specialists, Alliance Learning Apprenticeships, Heidelberg Materials, Jamm Studios, Access to Music College, The Home Office, North West Ambulance Service, Hindley Nursery School and Author – David Penny.

With such a vast array of employers in attendance the pupils were able to engage in enriched and informative discussions regarding the opportunities in the world of work. The sheer ‘buzz’ around the school after the event showed how beneficial the event had been and really given our pupils ‘food for thought’.

CyberFirst Empower Event

The Cyberfirst Empower event at Haydock Racecourse made significant strides in promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) interests amongst our 30 year 8 girls. The event, organized by IN4 Group, operators of HOST (Home of Skills & Technology), was part of the broader CyberFirst Schools & Colleges initiative led by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), a division of GCHQ. The primary objective was to inspire young minds to pursue careers in technology and cyber roles by introducing them to inspirational individuals actively working in the field today. By collaborating with industry leaders like IBM and KPMG, the event provided a unique platform for these girls to engage in interactive sessions, live demonstrations, and hackathons, offering them a firsthand glimpse into the exciting and dynamic world of cybersecurity.

Delivered by experts from various companies, the event aimed to demystify the perception of STEM subjects and showcase the diverse opportunities available in the cyber sector. The presence of professionals actively contributing to the industry added a tangible and relatable dimension to the girls' understanding of potential career paths. As part of the larger CyberFirst initiative, these empowerment events play a vital role in addressing the gender gap in technology-related fields, encouraging inclusivity, and fostering a new generation of skilled individuals equipped to tackle the challenges of the digital age.

The year 8 girls found the event both inviting and inspiring, helping them to understand how they can break down barriers and instilling confidence that they can pursue their interests in STEM. The engagement with industry professionals and hands-on activities contributed to a holistic and enriching experience, as well as showing them a potential vibrant future in the field of cybersecurity.

Year 10 Mock Interviews

KPMG - Opening doors

A sense of anticipation filled the air as year 9 students from our school gathered for the much-anticipated "Opening Doors to Opportunities" program. This unique event, designed to provide students with a glimpse into the world of work, was a collaboration between our school's mathematic department, professionals at KPMG, and the experts from Talent Foundry. With a threefold aim of imparting invaluable insights, honing core transferable skills, and exploring emerging technologies, this program was poised to be a transformative experience for all involved.

One of the primary objectives of the program was to provide students with an important insight into the world of work. The event saw them interacting with KPMG colleagues hailing from different corners of the business. Through candid conversations, students learned about the intricacies of various roles, the challenges they entail, and the skills necessary for success. This interaction went far beyond theoretical knowledge, immersing students in the practical realities of the professional landscape.

As the event progressed, students delved into the development of core transferable skills. Effective communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, positivity, confidence, resilience, leadership, and teamwork were at the forefront of the program's curriculum. The experiential nature of the event allowed students to put theory into practice, helping them develop these skills in a tangible way. The event wasn't merely about acquiring knowledge; it was about cultivating the abilities that will empower students in their future careers.

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, the program also enabled students to explore and learn about emerging and innovative technologies. They had the opportunity to engage with the tools and concepts that are shaping the future of various industries. This not only broadened their horizons but also equipped them with the knowledge and adaptability required to thrive in a world marked by constant change and innovation.

The "Opening Doors to Opportunities" program was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on our students. It was an experience that transcended the confines of traditional education, offering them a glimpse into a world where challenges are met with confidence, skills are applied with finesse, and innovation is embraced with open arms. As we look to the future, we're excited to see the lasting impact of this event as our students take their first look towards a potential career, armed with insights, skills, and confidence to thrive in the world of work. This program was a testament to the potential that lies within our students, waiting to be unlocked and explored.

Parklife Build Event

Excitement and anticipation buzzed through the corridors of Outwood Academy Hindley as the Year 10 music students eagerly prepared for an exclusive opportunity that promised to be both educational and inspiring. Sacha Lord, the visionary behind one of the UK's largest metropolitan festivals, Parklife, extended a special invitation as part of National Apprenticeship Week. The invite? To witness the 'build' stage of Parklife, an event that would shed light on the incredible effort that goes into orchestrating this monumental festival. It was a unique chance for young minds to peek behind the scenes and see what it takes to make the music festival happen.

This event offered our students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the inner workings of a grand-scale event like Parklife, without the usual hustle and bustle of the festival crowds. They stepped into a world of production, creativity, and collaboration that brings an event of this magnitude to life. But that's not all. The event is also about broadening our students' horizons and helping them connect the dots between their passions and potential career paths. By engaging with the diverse job roles available in the hospitality and leisure sector, our students will build a wider understanding of the world of work.

The 'Park Life Build' Workplace Safari is more than just an event; it's a journey of discovery. Our students have not only gained valuable insights into the logistics of event management but also witness the dedication and teamwork that make such spectacles possible. This unique experience is poised to be a pivotal moment for our music students, offering them a glimpse into the incredible opportunities that exist in the world of music and events. It was an educational experience that promised to leave a lasting impact, inspiring our students to explore their passions and envision a world of possibilities.

Speaker for Schools

Jason Spencer Business Development Director, ITV

Our year 7s had the privilege of a presentation and a Q&A session with Jason Spender about his career.

As Business Development Director for almost 7 years, Jason has led ITV’s 9 regional sales teams across the UK outside London in delivering revenue growth and creative business solutions through working in partnership with brands and media agencies. With award-winning partnerships and support for fast-track growth businesses, he has driven strong growth in the business over time.

After studying Philosophy at Sheffield University, Jason has had an eclectic career. From writing questions for a quiz show to running an off license to telesales and running a business… and a period of travelling the world in between! Prior to ITV, Jason has spent most of his career at media agencies – from media planning roles at Carat and PHD in London to running PHD North in Manchester. Prior to that, His proudest career moment to date was undoubtedly being part of IRN-BRU’s BRUZIL campaign for 2010 World Cup which won a Cannes Media Gold Lion, the biggest global prize in advertising.

Premier League Inspires Employability day

In conjunction with Wigan Athletic our students attended a Premier Leagues inspires employability day at Wigan Athletic. 

The students took part in a carousel of workshops focused on different career paths within and beyond football. 

Lowry Discovery Workshop

In conjunction with the mathematics department our year 7 cohort will have the following fantastic opportunity  to discover jobs within the aviation programme. 

Aviation workshops:

Pupils in year 7 will be inspired by the virtual ‘Aviation Inspiration’ workshops (delivered by a range of aviation professionals) that aim to introduce and improve the awareness of aviation careers, with a focus to improve social mobility by encouraging students from diverse, underrepresented disadvantaged areas of the UK into a career in aviation. The experiential experience will increase awareness of professional roles in aviation, hopefully sparking an interest and helping pupils to understand that this is a career they could follow.

Continuous programme:

Following the workshops, pupils that that show a keen interest in a career in this field will be invited to join an online virtual programme to develop personal confidence and professional competencies and connections (resilience) related to aviation careers, focusing on group mentoring/coaching and scenario-based training as learning and development opportunities. This will support them in their pathway to progressing onto and into a career within aviation.

The pupils on the continuous programme will be offered one hour of group mentoring and coaching every term to develop their awareness of aviation careers, attributes to working within aviation and personal countermeasures (human behaviours) such as sleep, nutrition, relationships, fitness, emotional intelligence, all fundamental requirements of a career within aviation.

Regular webinars will also be delivered by industry professionals the pupils can join in their own time.

National Apprenticeship Week 

During tutor time pupils throughout the academy participated in National Apprenticeship Week through virtual live events.

The week brought together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

The theme for the week reflected on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career and help businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with skills for the future. 

Below are links to each event our pupils participated in.