Local businesses are champions for students

Local business people met with students at Wootton Bassett School recently to talk about developing links enabling them to work together as part of the government’s Young Chamber (YC) programme.

Wootton Bassett Chamber of Commerce organised a meeting at the school between local businesses and students who make up the executive committee of the Young Chamber.

The YC programme is a government initiative which links selected schools and businesses with local Chambers of Commerce, enabling students to gain an understanding of business skills and ultimately be better prepared for the world of work.

Wootton Bassett YC was formed in October 2009 and is led by a committee of sixth form students whose primary aim is to organise school events and activities with a business emphasis.

The YC is looking for local business people to provide them with a direct line to a variety of skills and experience needed to support them as they develop their business aptitude.

People to act as ‘business champions,’ to mentor and support the students as and when help is required, and who can also provide a sounding board for new ideas and challenges.

Representatives from local businesses including Railston, Dreambase Studios, I.T. Magic (UK) Ltd, Wootton Bassett Town Council, FMW Recycling, Connecting4Lifestyle, Only Mortgages and Loaded Gunn Racing, joined students to find out more about the YC and talk about developing a closer working relationship on Wednesday, March 17.

Young Chamber organiser David Baker of Labyrinth Training Ltd said: “This programme is an excellent way of promoting joint enterprise between schools and businesses through a range of activities centred on the business world.

“It’s been great to welcome local businesses today who are keen to offer support and guidance to students by giving them a direct link to the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need when starting out on their careers, and also giving the companies themselves the opportunity to play an active part in the development of our future workforce.”