Inspiring young people to work in housing
We recently took part in a school's career event to encourage young people to choose a career in housing.
Stacey Bowling, one of our Service Manager's, was part of the interactive day at Skegness Grammar School in the county, alongside a host of other professionals.
The purpose of the day – which was aimed at Year 9 pupils who are due to choose their GCSE subjects shortly – was to increase meaningful encounters with employers and employees with students tasked to find out what the professionals did for a living through a 20 minute question and answer session. Visiting professionals kept their jobs secret until the end of the day.
Stacey explained: “It was a privilege and a great opportunity to represent Platform at Skegness Grammar School in the town. I advised the students that those who work in social housing really make a difference, supporting individuals and families in accessing safe, affordable homes and often transforming their lives. The work that we carry out is not always easy but overcoming challenges – whether financial, social or logistical – makes the job fulfilling and brings with it a strong sense of purpose.
“I wanted to do the event as, like me at the time, many young people struggle with career decisions due to a lack of exposure to different industries and job roles. By attending the event I wanted to bridge the gap between what is taught in schools and what is required in the workplace to help them make informed choices about their futures and be aware that learning doesn’t stop after school. Working in a professional environment enables them to seek continuous growth, whether through formal education, self learning or on the experiences.”
Our operating area is from Herefordshire in the west to the Lincolnshire coast in the east, and from the Derbyshire Dales in the north to the Cotswolds in the south.
Skegness Grammar School was founded in 1459 and is a selective co-educational day school open to all.
Jay Sturman, Assistant Principal from Skegness Grammar School said: “We were delighted to welcome Stacey and other local professionals to our school. It was such a worthwhile event and has offered much food for thought to our young people. We would like to thank everyone who made it such a success.”
Stacey concluded: “By engaging with the students and sharing experience we can help shape a future generation that is informed, capable and equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to tackle future challenges. Some of these young people will be leaders, decision makers and innovators as well as influencing change.”
Photo caption : Stacey Bowling, Service Manager at Platform Housing Group (third from left) was part of a professionals day at Skegness Grammar School to inspire young people to choose a career in housing.