Volunteer to give young people a better chance in Greater Manchester

CIPD research shows that 43% of young people feel the pandemic has harmed their long-term career prospects. Providing careers education in schools and colleges is essential to help students regain confidence in their future. More than ever, they need help to understand the opportunities available and how to access them.

The Institute is committed to creating opportunities for young people. CIPD is seeking professionals to:

help schools and colleges develop meaningful careers programmes
help young people to get their foot in the door
boost prospects for young people.

How you can help

Apply to volunteer with the Enterprise Adviser Network (funded and run by the Careers and Enterprise Company). Enterprise Advisers are volunteers who work directly with local school leadership teams to help them develop an outstanding careers programme and raise the aspirations of young people. They also work to create connections between schools and local employers, to bring the world of work to life for students.

Closing date 4 Jan 2022

“This is really about a partnership with schools and employers to prepare the next generation for the world of work and their future careers. When you have been in a professional role for several years, it is good to challenge yourself. The Enterprise Adviser role has connected me to a new sector, allowed me to use my transferable skills and helped to develop my strategic thinking. I’ve been able to support future talent and think about how we can offer the next generation opportunities.”
Enterprise Adviser volunteer

What to expect

As an Enterprise Adviser you will:

play an active role in helping a local school or college to encourage young people to think about their future by using your professional skills and insight to shape the careers education programme.
advise on strategic planning in a new context and gain a better understanding of the education sector.
develop professional skills including leadership, networking, influencing and commercial drive.
support the school to develop connections with local employers, enabling students to learn from them about, employment and skills that are valued in the workplace. 
build strong working relationships with your local school or college and provide insight into your organisation and industry.

Ideal candidates for this role are: 

experienced professionals able to influence and create strategic initiatives.
dedicated to making a lasting impact on the future of young people.
comfortable with working with a school’s senior leadership team.
able to volunteer one to five hours a month (includes at least one meeting with a matched school per half term, for example, every two months) for one academic year.