City-wide careers drive aims to inspire

BRADFORD HAS become the first city in the country to organise a week of inspirational careers events in both primary and secondary schools.

The initiative, Inspiring Bradford, is designed to raise and broaden the aspirations of young people and provide them with a better understanding of the job opportunities and career routes that are open to them. It is hoped it will form a blueprint for other parts of the country.

The week of high-profile events runs until Thursday and each day has a different theme: business and economy, diversity, women in science, the arts and career routes such as apprenticeships and university.

The week launched with a ‘Primary Futures’ event at Beckfoot Heaton Primary School and nursery and will also visit Horton Grange Primary School, Samuel Lister Academy and the National Science and Media Museum.

It is being backed by the Department for Education, the National Association of Headteachers and Bradford City Council, as well as MPs and other organisations.

Education Secretary Justine Greening said: “Every young person, regardless of where they live, should have the support they need to go as far as their talents and hard work will take them.

“The ‘Inspiring Bradford’ programme is a great example of the partnerships being set up in our 12 Opportunity Areas – of which Bradford is one – to drive social mobility and raise the aspirations of young people.

“I am delighted to support this work and look forward to hearing more of its success.”