From virtual work experience to bringing more employers into the classroom – Walsall College takes talent development to the next level  

Virtual work experience weeks led to 90 employers and 160 industry representatives engaging with nearly 2,000 Walsall College students during lockdown.

The college is building on this achievement by launching Employer in Every Classroom; a talent development initiative designed to help local businesses address skills shortages and recruitment challenges.

Employer is every Classroom is aligned to the government’s Building Back Better agenda.  This sees employers contributing to new ‘Local Skills Improvement Plans’ that put their business and skills priorities at the heart of the training carried out by further education colleges.

James Norris, Assistant Principal for Commercial Development at the college said: “Employers deserve a more prominent role in shaping and delivering our curriculum, resulting in improved prospects for our student graduates and the growth of our local industries.”

Employers interested in, or already working Walsall College can share their time, expertise and wider resources, with a view to achieving Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards demonstrating their ability to give back to their community.  Activities include work placements and industry/career-led talks, as well as company-set projects, mentoring and equipment sponsorship.

James continued: “Our recent virtual work experience weeks saw students completing over 400 hours of ‘real world of work’ activities.  92% of students involved believed these helped them to develop skills that employers’ value.  Feedback from the organisations and people supporting us was equally positive.  All are willing to work with the college on similar or other projects in future.

“This shows the impact that employers can have from the very start of our students’ career journeys.  We encourage others to step up now and stand out; so that together we are well-placed to build back better post-pandemic.”

For further information about how to get involved in Employer in every Classroom call 01922 657000 or see here.