The Adopt a School Program
Through the Adopt a School Program businesses are encouraged to adopt a school and give young people hands-on learning experiences in specific industry sectors.
Adopt a School links businesses, students and the broader community through activities that ultimately benefit all those involved.
Students are given the opportunity to gain real experience, learn about career opportunities open to them, and find out about the kinds of skills employers are looking for. On the other hand, local businesses gain experience in working with today’s young people and have a hand in shaping their future workforce.
The program also focuses on meeting future skills needs by encouraging young people to learn in new and emerging industry sectors and those that have current or predicted skills shortages. Adopt a School also helps to develop positive attitudes about local businesses and aims to dispel negative and outdated perceptions.
A typical Adopt a School project is set with a particular industry sector and runs to a project plan. It gives participating students hands-on learning under the guidance of an industry mentor and produces a defined finished product. When the project is completed, an awards evening or community-based event is often held to celebrate the project and the cooperation of all involved.
Local businesses can assist with the provision of materials, mentors and promotion of the project. Teachers and parents are also encouraged to be closely involved in the project so that all stakeholders benefit from an increased understanding of the career opportunities open to young people within these industry sectors.
Adopt a School projects can be based in business or industry, in the community or in schools. They include activities such as:
- building a product
- planning an event
- tours, site visits and excursions
- speakers and demonstrations
- student research and enterprise projects
- mentoring by industry specialists and local businesses
- projects with industry specific hands-on learning
- competitions and games.
