Employers, teachers, careers advisers and business leaders interested in helping young people to find out about the world of work are invited to attend an ‘Opening Doors’ event in Redditch.

The aim of this informal event is to connect businesses, organisations and schools, enabling young people to find out about what is being made, built, produced and created in their local area. The Opening Doors event has been organised by North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration, working in partnership with the Royal Society of Arts.

Lee Weatherly, Chair of the North Worcestershire Employment and Skills Board said:

“A wide variety of products and services are generated in both Redditch and Bromsgrove. However, local employers feel that many young people have little idea about what happens within these organisations and what career opportunities they offer.

“The Opening Doors programme provides opportunities to showcase to 15 and 16 year olds what happens locally within the world of work. Schools organise groups, within curriculum time, to visit local organisations and businesses so they can see first hand what goes on during the working day.  It also highlights the opportunities open to those with the right skills and qualifications.  Last year, students across North Worcestershire visited a whole range of organisations, from manufacturing, the Police, retail, hospitality and public sectors.”

The Opening Doors initiative has been running in Wyre Forest for the last couple of years. During 2017 it was trialled in Redditch and is now being extended into Bromsgrove.  The scheme has already proved very successful, with positive feedback from both students and employers.

Lee Weatherly concludes

“I urge anyone who works locally and is keen to connect their organisation with young people to come along to this event. I am delighted to support everyone involved and congratulate you on the development of this important programme for Redditch and Bromsgrove”.

The Opening Doors event is being held at the Palace Theatre, Redditch, on Wednesday 24 January 2018, arrival 16:30 for 17:00, finish 18:00 for networking.

Register online for this free event here.  Further details can be obtained from Sharon Forrest or Georgina Harris from NWedR on Info@nwedr.org.uk or telephone 0845 601 5953 option 1.