Industry careers advice for pupils

Pupils are being offered the chance to take part in a nationwide programme to demonstrate the breadth of jobs available in the energy industry.

National education charity

Future First – which works to break down barriers caused by social mobility issues – has partnered with Greenergy, the UK’s leading road fuel supplier and Europe’s largest manufacturer of biofuel from waste, to inform state school students about the skills necessary to succeed in the energy and fuel industry. Under the scheme, Greenergy will welcome students from Years 10, 11 and 12 with an interest in maths, technology and sciences to its fuel terminals and biofuel manufacturing plants.

Greenergy will coordinate site tours, offer talks with apprentices and site management about their own career pathways and provide insight into the study routes they chose to pursue specific roles in the energy industry. Greenergy energy industry workersAndrew Owens, Greenergy Chief Executive, said, “At Greenergy we employ over 800 people in a range of roles; from IT professionals, engineers, graphic designers to logistics personnel and truck drivers.

By giving students an insight into how our business works, we hope to demonstrate the range of opportunities available in the industry.”

The project forms part of Greenergy’s commitment to promote STEM subjects in higher education and to support young people in local communities. Future First research shows almost half of young people receiving Free School Meals don’t know anyone in a job they would like to do and that three quarters of them don’t believe that they can be successful.

Greenergy is one of several leading employers working with Future First to connect their employees with young people in schools and colleges. The link between schools and employers enables students to broaden their horizons and boost their confidence, motivation and knowledge about career pathways.

This opportunity will help pupils understand the type of jobs available in the energy industry

Future First’s partnership with Greenergy will allow more students to see what careers are available on their doorsteps and to access the experience and advice from people who work there.

This opportunity will help the students understand the breadth of opportunities in the sector and the skills needed for this range of jobs. Future First believes everyone should be able to succeed in a career of their choice, regardless of their background, and the opportunities and insights gained through this partnership will help many young people make more informed choices. They will be able to connect personally with people whose stories and experiences bring the industry alive. Hearing from employees in interesting jobs helps students make better informed decisions about what they need for their working life as well as develop the skills employers are looking for today.”

Schools interested in taking part in the scheme should contact Emma Fay, head of innovation and development at Future First, on 0207 239 8933, emma.fay@futurefirst.org.uk. Further information about Future First can be found on futurefirst.org.uk.