Developing the next generation in Slough

We are passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation and recently welcomed eight students from Langley Academy for a “Work Inspiration Week”. This week was the first of its kind at our Slough contract, and was different from a standard work experience week. The programme was delivered in partnership with Learning to Work, a local charity who work to benefit local young people, schools, colleges and businesses in Slough.

Each day was focused on a different theme, ranging from communications, the use of virtual reality in the workplace, learning about apprenticeships and a day in the life of an operative.
The week was fully packed with lots of different workshops which were led by both Slough Borough Council and Osborne staff. We also invited external organisations to join us to share their experience with students, including Immersive Computing Labs, Mapis, ADL Connexions and Men’s Matters.

The tailored programme also comprised of some volunteering opportunities to include painting of fence panels at a residential block.  This is also where the charity Men’s Matters is based, with the aim to bring together older men in the local area.   On completion of the fence painting, students and residents celebrated with a picnic in the communal garden.
The students really embraced the week, with many saying how they enjoyed learning new skills and understanding the opportunities available for their future careers. Harmanpreet, a student who took part in the week said, “I just want to thank Osborne as I have learnt so much and inspired by people talking about their careers”

“With the skills gap increasingly growing, it is vital that we support young people understand the true breadth of career paths open to them, entry level requirements and the importance of transferable skills, at the same time as giving them a real glimpse and hands on experience of the world of work.  Working in collaboration with Osborne and other like-minded organisations we have been able to create a bespoke programme that has really inspired, motivated and created a genuine interest in local organisations and all they have to offer” commented Nancy Lalor, Operations Director, Learning to Work.

We wish the students all the best for the future and look forward to working with Langley Academy and Learning to Work on further work experience placements.