Bradford’s manufacturers sign up to engage with pupils from 45 local schools

Strong Manufacturer Engagement Across Bradford

More than 30 Bradford manufacturers have registered for this year’s Bradford Manufacturing Weeks, with planning well underway.

A mix of online and in-person activities will run throughout the initiative, designed to engage and inspire pupils to consider a career in manufacturing.

So far, 32 manufacturers are confirmed, including eight first-time participants. New organisations include Yorkshire Dama Cheese, Tecnair Manufacturing, Bronte Precision Engineering, and Ortho Europe.

Introducing Young People to Manufacturing Careers

Taking place from 4th to 15th October, Bradford Manufacturing Weeks introduces students to manufacturing through:

• Work placements and work experience

• Manufacturer site tours

• Life skills and careers events

Since 2018, the initiative has created more than 12,000 manufacturing experiences for Bradford pupils aged 14 to 18.

E3 Recruitment’s Ongoing Support

This is the fourth year that E3 Recruitment has sponsored Bradford Manufacturing Weeks.

The initiative is led by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, with sponsors including Barclays, Naylor Wintersgill, LCF Law, and Bradford Council.

Andrew Joseph, Director at E3 Recruitment, said:

“Despite the challenges caused by Covid-19, this year’s programme is shaping up to be the best yet.

“The hybrid format builds on last year’s online success while bringing back in-person activities.

“As manufacturing and engineering recruitment specialists, we see the impact of the skills gap daily. Building a strong pipeline of young people is essential for the future of the sector.”

Apprentices Helping Shape the Programme

A new apprentice ‘task force’ is supporting this year’s planning. Apprentices are helping ensure activities feel relatable and relevant for pupils.

At Airedale Chemical in Keighley, apprentices recently met with South Craven School students to discuss proposed activities and gather feedback.

Lucy Sage, HSE Technician apprentice, said:

“We want to show students the variety of roles available, from production and engineering through to marketing and sales.

“It was great to hear what they want to see and experience during our tours.”

Year 13 student Shadi Hashem added:

“We’d like to see more of the site, especially the labs. There are lots of roles here, which makes it exciting.”

Airedale Chemical’s Continued Involvement

Craig Thomson, Group CFO of the Airedale Group, said:

“We’ve supported Bradford Manufacturing Weeks since it began and always see a positive response from pupils.

“Once they understand what modern manufacturing looks like, their interest grows.

“This year we’ll offer tours, short videos, and ‘meet the apprentice’ and ‘meet the manufacturer’ Q&As.”

Additional Events in October

Further activity across the fortnight includes:

• A ‘Getting to Know You’ event at The Opportunity Centre on 22nd September

• A waste-recycling innovation competition for schools

• A police and fire service-led Driver Awareness Event at Valley Parade

• Barclays Life Skills sessions covering CVs and interviews

Showcasing Manufacturing Opportunities

Nick Garthwaite, Chair of the Bradford Manufacturing Weeks steering group and Director at Christeyns, said:

“Employers and schools are more determined than ever to support young people with career choices.

“Manufacturing offers huge opportunity. Bradford Chamber of Commerce is proud to champion the sector.

“Today’s pupils are tomorrow’s workforce. Together, we can help them make informed decisions.”

For information on taking part in Bradford Manufacturing Weeks from 4th to 15th October, visit www.bradfordmanufacturingweek.co.uk.