SOUTHAMPTON students are being prepared for the workplace thanks to an “innovative” careers initiative.
Cantell School in Violet Road, Southampton has partnered with Natwest to deliver a programme that inspires students to explore different sectors of work.
Most recently, the secondary school pupils have enjoyed talks from companies such as Fat Face, Lush, Olio and many more.
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For headteacher, Harry Kutty, this initiative will significantly benefit everyone involved.
He said: “We set up what we believe is a really innovative partnership with Natwest and their clients to support young people with advice and guidance in terms of employment opportunities
“We wanted to create a new programme that has never been done before and will have significant benefits for all parties.
“It has been a great opportunity.”
The initiative, namely ‘Today’s Learning for your Tomorrow’ started amid the coronavirus pandemic, with the aim of improving adaptability and agility within the working world.
Mr Kutty said: “It is very clear that what is happening in the world of employment now is different after the pandemic in terms of adaptability and agility.
“We encourage strong academic results, but what is equally important are those skills that are important for employment.
“It’s down to leaders and teachers to make change and think outside of the box.
“Hopefully young people will look back at this time and say ‘that is the moment in my life that changed for the better.
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“There are so many different opportunities out there, from apprenticeships to on-the-job learning and graduate courses.
“It has been a huge success and we have had great feedback from everyone.
“It is a really exciting project our young people have benefited from.”
Craig Cotton, NatWest senior relationship manager said: “As a bank, we have a major role to play in empowering the lives of all young people and helping them gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in life.
“Our partnership with Cantell School has been built around this ethos and the impact it has had has been moving.
“The students at the school are truly inspiring and give us so much hope for the future.
“We’re very much looking forward to seeing how they progress in their future careers and working with the school again next year.”
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