Careers workshop for thousands of children is in danger of folding
Organisers issue sponsorship plea
AN EVENT which has inspired a generation of children into careers is in danger of having to fold due to lack of sponsorship.
The Get Inspired Portsmouth initiative welcomes thousands of school children to take part in interactive workshops with a host of businesses.
However, organisers have warned that the next event, which is due to take place at The Guildhall on Wednesday, January 22, could be the last unless additional sponsorship can be found.
Cath Longhurst, chief executive officer at EBP South, which organises the event, said: ‘The initiative has been going for almost a decade, but in order to maintain it, we need help from local businesses.
‘While the Guildhall Trust has allowed us to use the venue for free, the running costs are still around £15,000. So far we have received £1,000 of sponsorship from one company.’
January’s event will see 1,400 children from Portsmouth schools aged between nine and 15 learn about careers in professions such as journalism, engineering, medicine, law and the emergency services.
Cath says the event provides a vital opportunity for children to broaden their understanding of the different opportunities which exist.
‘Many young people aren’t aware of the different employment opportunities which exist,’ she said.
‘The event allows them to get involved in interactive activities, as well as asking questions to experts from different professions.
‘For some children, this event can just light that initial spark which can lead to a career path.’
Cath feels such events are particularly important in locations where there is a strong cultural history of traditional employment.
‘Portsmouth has a long history with the Royal Navy, which leads to many important careers, but this can lead to a blinkered outlook in which some young people are not as aware of other careers out there,’ she added.
Organisers hope the event will lead to increased aspirations for young people which will contribute to improving academic attainment across the city.
Cath said: ‘Young people in school can be disengaged if they don’t understand the reasons as to why they are studying certain subjects.
‘By speaking to professional people, they can suddenly make a tangible connection as to what they need to do – even if it’s someone other than their teachers telling them the importance of good GCSEs.’
While assured organisers schools that have next month’s event will go ahead, they’ve pleaded with businesses to help provide sponsorship to secure its future.
Cath said: ‘It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase your company and to engage with potential future employees.
‘The feedback we get from schools indicates that this event does make a real difference to pupils.’
To find out more, call EBP South on 023 9228 3400.