Education partnership sparking ambitions in Rochdale students during National Apprenticeship Week

Rochdale Training collaborated with the Talent Foundry during National Apprenticeship Week

An education initiative from national charity The Talent Foundry, aimed at raising aspirations and developing workplace skills among young people in Rochdale is now in its second year, continuing to make an impact.

Working alongside schools and local businesses, The Talent Foundry and investments business M&G plc provide students with a series of interactive workshops designed to boost their career confidence and employability.

The latest session - the second of four - brought together 40 students from five local secondary schools at Rochdale Training, giving them the opportunity to engage with professionals from a variety of industries.

This session was delivered by The Talent Foundry and supported by 11 volunteers from local Rochdale businesses, each bringing valuable insights into their respective career paths and industries. Their participation played a key role in helping students understand the diverse employment opportunities available to them in their own community and beyond.

The workshop included exciting team building activities and an exploration of each students’ goals, values and interests. They also had the opportunity to get hands on with Rochdale Training’s engineering facilities, each producing their very own aluminium spinning top toy.

Through hands-on activities and mentorship, the programme continues to break down barriers, ensuring that young people in Rochdale are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to pursue their ambitions.

Mark Whittaker, marketing manager at Rochdale Training Association, which hosted the workshop for the second year, said: “This event was a great opportunity for our local school children to try something different during National Apprenticeship Week. Career options can be confusing for many and the opportunity to explore different careers is essential for our young residents. A big thank you to the employers involved on the day and the schools who took part. Rochdale Training is hoping to see some of the group join our apprenticeship scheme next year."

Jenni Anderson, CEO at The Talent Foundry, said: "We’re proud to partner with M&G plc and local businesses to create opportunities for young people in Rochdale. This programme is more than just workshops - it's about inspiring confidence, broadening horizons, and providing practical skills that will help students take the next step toward their future careers."

As the programme progresses, students will take part in two further workshops, each designed to deepen their understanding of local career pathways, develop essential workplace skills, and build the confidence needed to take their next steps.

The Talent Foundry is keen to hear from local businesses with an interest in supporting the next generation and reaping the benefits of a well-skilled local workforce to take part in the programme. Businesses can contact info@talentfoundry.org.uk to find out more.