Leicestershire Cares is a charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people in Leicester and Leicestershire through youth work, education and community development. The Education Team is committed to enhancing the employability skills of secondary school students through various employability events and workshops. One memorable week showcased the team's impactful work as they delivered four events, including two interview technique sessions and two speedy speakers, with the support of 40 dedicated volunteers who reached out to 940 students.
The Interview Technique sessions took place at Beauchamp College. The team, along with the volunteers, conducted mock interviews with the year 10’s and shared valuable insights and tips to help the students feel more confident and prepared for future interviews, a crucial skill for students preparing to enter the competitive job market. Through the mock interview sessions, the students gained practical experience and feedback to improve their communication and presentation skills.
The second set of events featured our Speedy Speakers sessions which took place at City of Leicester College, where professionals from various industries shared their career journeys and offered valuable advice to the students. These sessions not only inspired the students but also provided them with a glimpse into the diverse career opportunities available to them. The speakers' stories highlighted the importance of perseverance, passion, and continuous learning in achieving success in the professional world.
The involvement of 40 volunteers in these events played a significant role in enriching the students' careers education. Their enthusiasm, expertise, and willingness to give back to the community made a lasting impact on the students. By volunteering their time and knowledge, these individuals became mentors and role models, guiding the students towards a brighter future. We were lucky enough to have volunteers from over 11 local businesses, including Cadent, Hinckley & Rugby Building Society, Nelsons Law, Sytner, University of Leicester, Walker & Son, Lloyds Banking, Salad Works, Cambridge & Counties Bank, CGI, Freeths and Surveyors to Educations, as well as a number of retirees.
Employee volunteering offers numerous benefits, especially when it comes to supporting schools. Firstly, it provides an avenue for professionals to share their skills and knowledge with students, enhancing the learning experience. This can inspire and motivate students by exposing them to real-world experiences and diverse perspectives. Additionally, employee volunteering can help in bridging the gap between the academic curriculum and the practical skills required in the professional world. It also allows employees to develop leadership and communication skills while giving back to the community. Moreover, such initiatives can foster a sense of teamwork and collaboration among employees, leading to a more engaged and motivated workforce. Employee volunteering within schools not only benefits the students and educational institutions but also contributes to the personal and professional growth of the volunteers.
Overall, the week with Leicestershire Cares Education Team was a testament to the power of volunteering and collaboration in fostering the personal and professional development of young individuals. Through their dedication and hard work the volunteers empowered almost 1000 students to dream big, strive for success, and realise their full potential.
If you are interested in getting involved in our Education project and the employability events we deliver, please contact Bella on bella@leicestershirecares.co.uk