LOWRY ACADEMY, SALFORD

The world of work is becoming increasingly complex, and the current generation of young people face significantly greater challenges than preceding generations in making informed decisions about their future career choices. Between July and September 2022, the total number of 16-24 years olds not in education, employment of training (NEETs) in the UK was a staggering 724,000 (The Office of National Statistics). Salford is amongst the highest rates of NEETS in the UK and in Little Hulton specifically, these rates are stubbornly high.

Around 10% of 16- to 17-year-olds are known to be NEETs in Little Hulton.The Lowry Academy is a popular 11-16 school in Little Hulton,Salford.The school is dedicated to supporting children to reach their full potential and is one of a small number of schools in England offering Construction as a GCSE to their students. The course encourages students to develop their knowledge of the industry, which they then apply in relevant and work-related contexts.

Throughout 2023, Seddon provided curriculum support to year 10 and year 11 young learners, groups considered most at risk of becoming NEET, by planning and delivering the following careers workshops:
January 13th 2023: Careers in Construction & Apprenticeships
January 17th 2023: Joinery Skills Workshop 
March 7th 2023: Electrical Skills Workshop 
May 16th 2023: Plumbing Skills Workshop

The students, who were all completing a Construction GCSE, were provided with an ideal platform to gain some insight into the construction industry and learn new skills.Seddon provided an open field of guidance, consultancy and exploration of multiple construction career options for the students including details on apprenticeships & higher educational courses.