Linking the Workplace with Schools
Woodham Academy continued its work with local industry on Thursday 10th October by hosting the Aycliffe Business Conference. The event was aimed at business leaders seeking to work with education providers to maximise the quality of the future work force. Over twenty companies were represented at the event which involved tours showing education in action and giving an opportunity to reflect on current practice.
‘The morning allowed professionals within education and local industry to discuss how we might come together to support all young people to successfully contribute to the economy of future society when they leave full time education, said Sarah McGinnety, the event’s organiser, ‘ The outcomes of discussions will be used in the future to plan further collaboration between Woodham Academy and local business to prepare our young people for working life.’
In July 2013, Woodham Academy was awarded Investors in Careers status, which acknowledges excellence in Careers Education. It is intended that the new links developed through the conference will support the existing curriculum further.
Newton News was privileged to attend this event which was a rich experience. Meeting the staff and students in their natural environment was rewarding and reminded visitors of their own much different schooldays. Schooling today is a much more interactive and relaxed method of education where students are encouraged to express their opinions.
They learn in an atmsophere of tolerance with teachers demonstrating a greater understanding of the adolescent mind. Woodham Academy is a fine educational establishment led by an inspiring Head Teacher and a very dedicated and highly qualified staff.
The school premises are a joy to visit with a ready smile of welcome from the receptionist and warm greetings from staff and students as you walk through the corridors.
The business people who made this visit came away very much impressed, praising the high standards set at the Academy and also the quality of food served to students which they sampled as the visit concluded with a tasty lunch.
