News Item

Leeds Ahead held a world of work day last Thursday with children from Middleton Park Primary School. The event was run in partnership with a group of volunteers from O2 UK's Arlington Business Centre Year. The aim was to give year Five and Six pupils an insight into the opportunities that education and employment can bring.

Both partners are keen to get over to children the advantages of working, from learning new things and being able to support yourself and family, to buying a home, meeting people and perhaps travelling the world. The event was facilitated by class teachers with volunteers interacting with each class by talking about their own jobs and encouraging children to link what they are learning now with their futures and the world of work.

Volunteer Pandora Maund told the children how when she was a small girl she longed to have a pony but her parents couldn't afford one.  Now, through her job and hard work, she has her own horse and has achieved many other childhood dreams.

Janette Cawcutt, Business Account Manager for Leeds Ahead, said:

"We have been working with O2 for a number of years in particular to support young people in the South of Leeds. These projects are designed to raise aspirations, educational attainment and to instill a positive attitude to education and employment. The O2 volunteers always bring energy and enthusiasm to the projects and are positive role models for young people."