Over 50 Plumbing and Electrical students from Harrow College have enjoyed a career-focussed day in the company of tutors and an inspirational local plumber. The insightful and interactive day was coordinated by Working Knowledge - a social enterprise that exists to open the eyes of business to the young talent available locally.
The purpose of the day was about taking opportunities. Firstly the learners brainstormed ideas about the skills that they thought employers would be looking for when recruiting new employees. Business Volunteer and local Plumber Mark Fraser spoke about his remarkable story of a difficult childhood and associated troubles. He explained how he manged to switch his attention to learning a trade which provided him with a way out and led to a wonderful careers path. He highlighted communication and attitude as being key skills and attributes which benefited him in achieving a successful career.
The learners were then tasked with creating a team presentation which focused on business ideas. Each team showed great energy and enthusiasm when pitching their ideas. The session ended with Mark awarding a prize for the most outstanding individual of the day. The winner was student Michael McDonagh who had really embraced the day from the start, asking lots of good questions, communicating clearly and showing a positive attitude at all times. He was very deserving of his cash prize!
Lee Janaway Head of Learner Services, Experience and Employability at Harrow College said:
"It was great for our construction students to hear about the key attributes needed to be successful from someone who has undertaken a similar journey to them and overcome hurdles to become a skilled tradesman".
For more about Plumbing, Electrical and Construction courses at Harrow College, click here.