The BPF launches its First Career Ambassador Training Session

The Career Ambassadors initiative trains members to go into schools, promote the many career opportunities that the plastic industry has to offer and inspire students to join the industry. The initiative was created to help companies who are facing challenges with recruitment. Career Ambassadors trains you to establish a local community network which results in creating a new recruitment channel for your company.

Seven ambassadors attended the first all day training session which was led by Rachel Brickell from Cogent Skills SIP Ambassador Programme. Ambassadors were taught how to use the SIP Futures in Science handbook to create lesson plans that are appropriate for students who are considering what their next career options are going to be (year 9 to 12). The ambassadors then ran through running a mock lesson and giving a speech on why they joined the industry in the first place. Rachel then provided feedback on how to engage a variety of different ages, student abilities and class. To help build a recruitment channel, ambassadors are also taught how to build relationships with teachers, career advisors and parents as well. The BPF has also partnered with STEM Learning UK to provide Career Ambassadors with access to the STEM network forum and resources. It should also be noted by becoming a Career Ambassador you will also become a Cogent SIP Ambassador and STEM Ambassador. Mohammed Elkhalifa (from the BPF) showed the ambassadors what resources the BPF has been working on, more details on these will be released shortly. By the end of the session, the ambassadors were able to deliver engaging career outreach lessons in schools to inspire the next generation.

Feedback from the ambassadors was overall positive for the session. With feedback stating, “lots of resources which keeps things fresh and different” and “very useful and detailed resources. Will be extremely helpful for my structure session planning”. As Career Ambassador is currently a pilot initiative it is paramount that feedback is provided so improvements can be made for the next training session in Easter.

The Career Ambassador programme is a great opportunity for your company to create another recruitment channel. It also allows the local community to see what you have to offer as well. Anyone from the industry can become a career ambassador, you do not have to be a scientist or engineer. The training is also free for anyone! To ensure there is a next generation to join the plastic industry, register your interest for the next Career Ambassador training session, please email [email protected] or click here.