Enterprise Advisers thanked for their massive contribution to local schools and colleges

An army of 155 advisers from local businesses have spent the past year inspiring young people across Derby, Amber Valley, Erewash and South Derbyshire to reach their potential, opening their eyes to the vast opportunities available and helping to retain talent in the region. 
 
Part of a national programme delivered in this region through the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, Enterprise Advisers are experienced professionals from the world of work who volunteer their time to supporting local schools and colleges. 
 
They commit to supporting a school or college for at least one academic year through providing experience from their careers and expertise from their industry which helps schools develop high quality careers programmes. 
 
Now nearing the end of the school year, the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership has organised an event at The Farmhouse in Mackworth to thank them for their work which is helping young people achieve their potential. 
 
Speakers at the event include Andy Neal from IG Masonry Support who has worked with The Pingle Academy in Swadlincote to help inspire and educate them about the career possibilities available. 
 
Deb Holland, Assistant Principal at The Pingle Academy said: “Working with Andy Neal and the staff at IG Masonry Support, through the Enterprise Adviser programme and D2N2, has been of huge benefit to all of us and incredibly rewarding. 
 
“The staff and students here at The Pingle Academy have benefitted in a number of ways.  That might have been the A-Level Business students in a visit to the IG premises, or the visit of IG staff to BTEC construction students to discuss what wider careers are available in the construction industry. 
 
“It might also have been a motivational talk by a member of the IG staff at a prize giving evening.  The support provided has been wide and varied but all have provided links for the students with the wider world of work.  We can teach the theory but linking businesses to what we do makes our curriculum real and relevant, helping us meet the Gatsby Benchmarks. It raises aspirations too and increases confidence.” 
 
This week’s event will help Enterprise Advisers to meet each other and learn about the work they have been doing with their schools and colleges, sharing ideas they can take back for the coming academic year. 
 
Will Morlidge, Chief Executive of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, is himself an Enterprise Adviser and said he was proud of the community of 155 advisers serving 151 institutions through Career Hubs set up in the region. 
 
“I’m an Enterprise Adviser and it’s been the most inspirational volunteering role I’ve had,” he said. “I would encourage all employers to consider joining our network, because this is a network that supports you. 
 
“Enterprise Advisers are crucial to help bridging the gap between the world of work and the education system. They help to inspire young people to consider the vast array of careers that are available locally, and they help schools and colleges to keep driving up not just the quality and variety of careers activities for young people, but also their relevance to the current and future labour markets. 
 
“This work is important to all local businesses and supports them to develop strong links within the community, raise awareness of their brand and their jobs. Enterprise Advisers enthuse young people about their organisations and many report that through doing so they develop their own skills. All of this means that the businesses of the D2N2 area can expect an increasingly enthusiastic and committed young workforce, making sure that we keep the top young talent in this region to drive our productivity.” 
 
Abdul Bathin, National Enterprise Adviser Programme Manager, will also attend the event at The Farmhouse. 
 
He said: “Enterprise Advisers play a crucial role in bringing the outside world into the classroom and help demystify the world of work for our education leaders. 
 
“We have over 4,000 Enterprise Advisers working across England, all using their industry skills and knowledge to help to deliver modern, 21st century careers education. Having worked closely with the D2N2 network of Enterprise Advisers for several years now, I’d like to thank them for their commitment and celebrate their outstanding contribution. Ultimately, it’s that partnership and collaboration which is critical to ensure all young people can find their next best steps.”