Why should you volunteer in schools?
Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of young people, not only academically but also in preparing them for the world of work. A growing body of evidence suggests that the involvement of business volunteers in employability events—such as mock interviews, career talks, and career fairs—is instrumental in helping students navigate their career pathways. This support not only enhances students' readiness for further education or employment but also plays a significant role in reducing the number of young people classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Employment
According to research from Education and Employers, students who have four or more meaningful encounters with employers during their school years are 86% less likely to become NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) after leaving school. Furthermore, these students are likely to earn up to 18% more than their peers who had fewer or no employer interactions during their schooling. These events, whether in the form of career talks, workplace visits, or mock interviews, provide essential insights into the job market and what employers expect, significantly improving students' future employability.
Mock Interviews: Building Confidence and Skills
One of the most valuable forms of employer engagement is the mock interview, where business volunteers give students the opportunity to practice their interview techniques in a real-world setting. Research by Career Ready, a UK-based charity, found that 72% of students who participated in mock interviews felt more confident about their future employment prospects, with 93% of employers agreeing that such activities make young people more work-ready.
These mock interviews help students refine key skills like communication, which is critical for employment. A 2019 survey by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills reported that 49% of UK employers rated communication as one of the most important employability skills, emphasizing the importance of these real-world practice sessions.
Career Talks: Raising Aspirations and Career Knowledge
Career talks delivered by business professionals expose students to a wide variety of career paths and help raise their aspirations. A 2016 study by Education and Employers found that students who attended career talks were more likely to be motivated to work harder, with 90% of young people reporting that these talks helped them understand how the subjects they study in school relate to the job market. This real-world insight helps students make better-informed decisions about further education or training.
For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, these career talks can be especially impactful. Research from the Sutton Trust suggests that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often lack access to career networks, and employer-led activities in schools help level the playing field. In fact, 75% of disadvantaged students who had employer engagements were more likely to consider higher education or vocational training as realistic options.
Career Fairs: Linking Education with Industry
Career fairs offer an opportunity for students to meet employers and education providers, giving them firsthand information about the job market, apprenticeships, and further education opportunities. According to a report by the Career Development Institute, 65% of students who attended career fairs stated that they had a clearer idea of their post-school options, with many being inspired to consider paths they hadn’t previously thought of.
These fairs also provide essential networking opportunities. In the competitive job market, 70% of jobs are never advertised, according to estimates from Adzuna, making personal connections vital to securing employment. Career fairs help students build early networks with professionals, which can significantly enhance their job prospects.
Reducing NEET Rates: The Long-Term Impact of Business Engagement
One of the most pressing issues facing education systems is the rise in young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). According to the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), as of 2023, 10.7% of 16-24-year-olds in the UK were classified as NEET. However, schools that integrate regular employability programs, supported by business volunteers, see much lower NEET rates.
The impact of these programs is evident. The Career Ready initiative, which partners with over 3,500 employers in the UK, found that 98% of students who took part in their employability activities progressed into further education, training, or employment, significantly reducing the risk of them becoming NEET. Similarly, the Education and Employers charity reports that business engagement in schools can lead to NEET reductions by 20% in areas where employer involvement is high.
Conclusion: A Call for Greater Involvement
As the world of work becomes increasingly complex and competitive, it is vital that schools offer students the skills and experiences they need to thrive. Business volunteers play a crucial role in this process, offering real-world insights, practical advice, and much-needed confidence to young people at a pivotal time in their lives.
For businesses, the benefits of engagement are also clear. By volunteering in schools, companies help shape the future workforce, create more equitable opportunities for all students, and contribute to a reduction in NEET rates. As the data shows, increased business engagement in schools has the potential to significantly reduce unemployment rates among young people, ensuring a brighter future for students and a stronger economy.
The Leicestershire Cares Education team has developed an employability programme which connects local businesses with schools across the region. The charity delivers various programs aimed at enhancing young people's employability which brings business volunteers into schools to conduct mock interviews, career talks, and employability workshops. If you would like to get involved, please contact Bella on bella@leicestershirecares.co.uk and start changing the future today.