Virtual Work Inspiration Suffolk 2021 | April

By Brigette Currin 5 February 2021 3 minute read

Virtual Work Inspiration for Suffolk (VWIS) 2021 is an exciting opportunity for employers to provide young people in Suffolk with an insight into their organisation, its operations, and their sector. The programme allows students to have a meaningful and informative experience to help raise aspirations, equip them with 21^st century skills and broaden their understanding of the local jobs market and pathways.

We are looking for over 200 people to support this virtual experience by interacting with students (age 14-16) and enabling them to explore the themes below. Each session will last a maximum of one hour and be in groups of not more than 20 students. Sessions will also be supported by their teachers. Full dates and times to be confirmed soon.

You will be fully supported with technical training on the platform (Google Classroom) and detailed session plans and resources. You will also have the opportunity to place additional work experience opportunities through the Speakers for Schools dedicated platform.

The programme will run throughout the Summer term and be a mixture of online and offline activities and reach over 300 students. The programme supports schools to achieve the Gatsby Benchmarks (2,4,5 & 7) and ensures their pupils receive meaningful encounters with the world of work.

The programme offers employers and the self-employed a flexible approach to engaging in careers education. You will be encouraged to support the programme with a range of staff – from senior staff to graduates, apprentices, interns and Kickstart placements – enabling employees to develop their confidence and communication skills and perhaps make a valuable contribution to their CPD. You can put forward a number of employees from your organisation and they can support either one session or several.

The programme is organised by three local strategic partners to deliver maximum impact and value to students whilst giving flexibility for timetable scheduling at no cost to employers or the schools.

If you would like to join us please complete this short expression of interest and we will be in touch. https://forms.gle/q9Bet5JbJM6nMSaq9

Programme Summary

THEME 1 April/May 2021	Exploring career opportunities	Keynote inspirational session, supported by exploration activities in small online sessions and class-room research.
THEME 2 May/June 2021	Understanding the key skills Suffolk employers need	Keynote inspirational session, supported by activities in small online sessions and class-room research.
THEME 3 June 2021	Enterprise and Entrepreneurship	Keynote inspirational session, supported by activities in small online sessions and class-room group project.
THEME 4 June/July 2021	Pathways to Success	Keynote inspirational session, supported by exploration activities in small online sessions and individual research.
THEME 5 July 2021	Resilience, confidence and interviews	Keynote inspirational session, supported by online activities to prepare for mock interviews to be held in small groups with employers
July 2021	Celebration Event	Virtual celebration and certificates of achievement