We would like to say a huge thank you to our fantastic corporate partners Orbis Investments for hosting an unforgettable Aspiration Day for students we support.
The day started off with a session on personal finance, including a discussion around interest, student loans and budgeting. The students were incredibly engaged and had lots of questions around the topics. This session was followed by a networking lunch where pupils had the chance to talk to Orbis employees about their career prospects, and quiz them on their own routes into work. There was then time to play some games (Xbox, snooker, table football!) before going back to business in the boardroom.
The afternoon session covered an introduction to Asset Management before concluding with a discussion around the benefits of university vs apprenticeships. The students were inspired by the day, with many asking how they can get to work at Orbis in the future!
The impact of these sessions are invaluable to students we support, and encourages them to aim higher and realise the opportunities that may be available to them. By doing so, they develop an understanding of the importance of education to unlock doors for their future career aspirations. One student commented: ‘I loved today, it helped me figure out a pathway to my future career. Thank you, bring us back!’
This day gave students the opportunity to ask any questions or share any fears they may have about the working world, and gave them the space to be themselves. Another student commented that they ‘felt heard’ and ‘learnt that there are multiple roles that one person can do!’
Thank you so much to the amazing volunteers at Orbis who delivered an informative and inspiring session for Year 10 students who are at a critical point in their school journey leading up to their GCSEs in Year 11. They had a wonderful day and took so much away. Alongside the lessons learnt, the students were delighted to go home with Orbis branded goodies, including a tote bag, water bottle and even socks! It was great to work with Orbis to achieve our shared goal of supporting children to access education and reach their full potential.