The Black Country LEP is looking for business leaders to help connect local schools with the world of work through its Enterprise Adviser Network.

The network is also supported by the Careers and Enterprise Company, Wolverhampton City Council and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. Over 56 Black Country businesses and schools are already engaged, and the ambition is to connect every school in the region to a local business leader by the end of the academic year.

Supported by an enterprise coordinator, each adviser works with the senior leaders of a specific school, academy or college to help them develop a whole-school strategy for careers and enterprise. The adviser provides the school with access to their local business networks, uses their experience and expertise to enhance the school’s enterprise curriculum and helps identify activities that promote motivation, independence and success.

Enterprise advisers can be in business, employed or self-employed in any sector and from any size of organisation. Previous experience of working with schools is not necessary. The voluntary role is a unique opportunity to improve opportunities for young people in the local area, while joining a strong professional network of likeminded peers.

Adam Harris from Atlas Forklifts is one of the network’s current advisers. He says that helping young people become employable is a major challenge for many schools. Phil Caldicott from Agilysis, another of the network’s advisers, agrees: “To raise their aspirations and expectations is a challenge, but one that will bring rewards in their future lives. I’m more than pleased to play my part.”

Tracy Barnes, student development manager at Aldersley School confirms that the support from their enterprise adviser has been “vital and positive”, including holding careers fairs, setting enterprise challenges and helping students develop their interview technique.

If you think you have what it takes to be an enterprise adviser, find out more by contacting Angela Moore. Email angela_moore@blackcountryconsortium.co.uk or call 01384 471 133 for an informal discussion.