The issue
To raise the aspirations of pupils in Ashfield Boys’ High, specifically those in Year 9, and open their eyes to the world of work. By specifically focusing on Year 9 pupils, the school felt that every pupil in this year group over the course of two academic years would benefit from the interventions delivered by Mount Charles. The fact that the Chairman of the Mount Charles Group is a past pupil of the school was also a huge factor in development of this partnership.

What Mount Charles did
Delivered a series of career talks to all Year 9 classes by the HR Officer from Mount Charles with the aim of providing more information about the company and the various job roles within it. This was seen as pivotal and would help the boys when it comes to selecting their subject choices in Year 10. A select number of Year 9 boys also got to visit the Mount Charles for a very informative workplace visit to bring the world of work to life.

Patricia McErlane, HR Officer at Mount Charles Group commented:
“I have personally enjoyed the experience of working with Ashfield Boys’ High through Employment East. From presenting to the Year 9s on a regular basis, to attending mock interviews and careers fairs, I have found it very rewarding. Mount Charles has developed a great partnership with Ashfield Boys’ High, and I hope it will continue beyond Employment East.”

The impacts

• Over 250 Year 9 pupils will have benefitted from interventions by Mount Charles throughout the project duration
• Over 100 pupils along with their parents and teachers benefitted from hearing a talk from the Chairman of Mount Charles at school Prize Day 2018

This partnership has flourished throughout the project duration and we hope this will continue in the future.