Energy storage manufacturer GivEnergy has launched a careers project with local primary schools to highlight the importance of green technology and opportunities available in the region.
Alongside its not-for-profit arm GivEducation, the firm welcomed teachers from 40 schools to its manufacturing and distribution centre in Chemical Lane, Longbridge Hayes. The two-day programme was designed to raise awareness of career opportunities within Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area and raise aspirations among the region’s youngest learners.
The day was part of the wider Start Small; Dream Big initiative, led by the Careers and Enterprise Company, in conjunction with the Stafford-based Inspirational Learning Group and Stoke and Staffordshire Careers Hub.
Participating schools will be asked to plan, develop and pitch ideas for the next renewable energy breakthrough to a panel of experts comprised of GivEnergy and GivEducation staff members.
The programme will culminate with a celebration held at Keele University later in the year, where the schools involved will be able to pitch their ideas to an expert panel of judges.
Jason Howlett, Global CEO at GivEnergy, said: “This initiative is about more than education — it’s about empowering the next generation to dream bigger and aim higher within our community. We are thrilled to collaborate with such dedicated educators who play a pivotal role in shaping young minds and broadening their horizons.”
Joe Basketts, education director at GivEducation, added: “By allowing young learners the time to focus on their futures this early on in their school careers, we can not only contextualise learning outcomes for them but also inspire them to raise their aspirations when it comes to the type of careers they could achieve once they leave education.
“We’re immensely proud to be leading the way on this initiative, and we hope this can be a catalyst for other businesses nationwide to follow suit.”
