The Education Team at Leicestershire Cares has reported a highly successful Quarter 3, continuing its mission to equip young people with vital employability skills through meaningful engagement with business volunteers.
Between January and March, the team delivered a series of impactful interview technique sessions across the region. In total, 795 students from 11 schools took part in 12 individual events, supported by an impressive 91 business volunteers. These sessions provided students with practical, hands-on experience, helping them build confidence and develop key skills needed to succeed in future job interviews.
We had volunteers from Surveyor to Educators, East Midland Chambers, Haymarket Shopping Centre, Market Harborough Building Society , Kindeve, Everards, DWP, ThermoFisher, NHS, University of Leicester, Lovell, Leicester City Council, Department of Education, Cadent, Freeths, Melton Building Society,Wilmot Dixon, Kier, Sytner, Nelsons Law, HRBS, CGI, Hays, Samworth Brothers and Bovis.
In addition to our mock interview session, the team also facilitated broader employability events designed to prepare students for the world of work. During Quarter 3, 3 employability sessions were delivered, engaging 270 students with the support of 95 volunteer attendances.
The continued involvement of dedicated volunteers remains central to the programme’s success. By sharing their expertise and real-world experiences, volunteers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring students are better prepared for their next steps.
Thank you to you and the volunteers for all you did today. It was a busy environment at times, particularly for people not used to working with young people with those specific needs. You were understanding of the environment, and the extra logistical implications. You were supportive of your volunteers
School Feedback
The volunteers were extremely personable and supportive during the interviews and were very positive of the students. Their feedback was useful and considerate of the young people's needs. I am very happy with how many young people attended and completed the interviews, and that is largely down to you and your team's approach.
School Feedback
I just wanted to reach out and say a huge thank you to the team, and the volunteers for today’s mock interviews. The students really enjoyed the process and you could see how much of a positive impact it’s had on their confidence since– they have been talking all afternoon about their experience!
School Feedback
Building on this success, the Education Team is also focusing on the development of its Modern Work Experience approach. This evolving project is designed to better align with the changing needs of both schools and employers, offering flexible, meaningful opportunities for young people to engage with the world of work. By collaborating closely with partner schools and local businesses, the team is creating tailored experiences that go beyond traditional placements, bringing real industry insight directly into the classroom while supporting employers to connect with future talent in a more accessible and impactful way.
As we look ahead to the summer term, there is a real sense of momentum and opportunity. Leicestershire Cares invites more schools and businesses to get involved, whether by hosting sessions, volunteering time, or helping shape the future of work experience for young people. Together, we can continue to inspire, prepare, and empower the next generation, making the months ahead our most impactful yet.
If you would like to be involved with our work, either a school or business, please contact bella@leicestershirecares.co.uk.