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The Skills Service gives special thanks to Caterpillar for record number of volunteers supporting careers events in local schools
The Skills Service gives special thanks to Caterpillar for record number of volunteers supporting careers events in local schools

Over 200 staff from Caterpillar in Peterborough have received special recognition from The Skills Service for their voluntary support of vital careers and enterprise events in local schools.

In 2018 alone the Caterpillar team contributed over 200 hours of volunteering in schools with The Skills Service. A total of 235 volunteers from Caterpillar have taken part in events run by Skills Service over the last seven years.

The events range from mock interviews and CV masterclasses to enterprise challenges and careers shows, and often are students’ first experiences of the world of work. Aimed at students in Years 7-13 the events showcase the huge variety of careers available, different routes into work and enhance young people’s employability.

In recognition of this volunteering milestone Caterpillar’s volunteers were given a special award by Becky Cook and Debbie Longhurst from The Skills Service on Friday 30 November.

The Skills Service is run by Opportunity Peterborough and provides a brokerage role between businesses, education and training providers in Peterborough and neighbouring districts.

Sarah Anstiss, Skills Lead at The Skills Service said, “We work with so many passionate volunteers from lots of local businesses on our events and the entire Caterpillar team have really been standout supporters. We’re delighted to recognise the huge contribution the company and its staff have made to students in Peterborough and the surrounding area.

“It’s so important for businesses and schools to work together so that students leave education with the right skills. Meeting an employer in a professional setting can be a real confidence-boost for students. They can get practical advice on careers, learn first-hand what employers are looking for, and get some hands-on experience of working practices to help get their career off to the best possible start.”

Julia Edwards, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Caterpillar said, “We thoroughly enjoy working with The Skills Service in schools and feel honoured to receive this award. As a company we are passionate about supporting and working with schools and students, helping with insights on different career opportunities and employers’ expectations and developing the students’ future employability.”

For more information about The Skills Service visit theskillsservice.co.uk. Anyone interested in volunteering in local schools can contact a member of the team by email: info@theskillsservice.co.uk or calling 01733 863696.