EMPLOYERS from all over the region set the students of Robert Blake Science College a challenge they will never forget.

Working with the school and the Bridgwater Education Trust (BET), employers from Yeo Valley, EDF Energy, Somerset County Council and many more organisations helped the students to develop vital team-building and communication skills, and shared their valuable knowledge about the huge range of sectors and opportunities that the world of work has to offer.

Continuing their work with five Bridgwater secondary schools, the BET and CSW Group – who recruit and co-ordinate employers on their behalf in liaison with the schools – were delighted with the response received from the employers approached to take part.

Steve Leahy, former Robert Blake student and chairman of Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce visited the school and was able to watch some of the workshops as the students took on their challenges.

“Having remembered my school days at Blake, the transition is absolutely amazing and what a fantastic school with endless opportunities for the students to engage and progress,” he said.

“Yesterday’s event saw a superb interaction and involvement from local companies keen to help progress the potential business leaders of the future, and was music to my ears – especially with the new Young Chamber incentive about to be launched by the Bridgwater Chamber.”

“Hopefully local business will benefit massively from local growth and it’s great to see them giving something back, which is exactly the point of the new Chamber initiative. Well done to all involved.”

In addition to career events, the Bridgwater Education Trust also recruits mentors who undertake 1:1 work with students.

This provides students with the opportunity to speak to an adult already in the world of work with whom they can discuss their ideas and plans for the future.

Due to the success of the scheme, the Trust is currently recruiting mentors - if you are interested in this rewarding opportunity please contact the BET Coordinator Hilary Adams: hilary.adams@cswgroup.co.uk