Over 200 children from seven primary schools took part in a careers event for kids in Haverhill.
This event was hosted by the West Suffolk College learning centre in the town. The learning centre in Haverhill is part of Eastern Education Group.
NHS Addenbrooke’s Hospital and West Suffolk Council came along to support this occasion.
The events are called Skills Escalator Days and aim to give primary school children a window into the world of work. They were launched in 2021 and during that time, 8000 young people have had the chance to experience these days across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.
Victoria Fiebelkorn is the organiser of these sessions. The Group Head of Skills at Eastern Education Group said. “These events aim to enable the students to broaden their horizons at a crucial point in their development. The days are all about providing enrichment and aspirations to the children.”
Victoria was supported by Elaine Simmons, the Head of Personal and Professional Learning Centre (Haverhill). Elaine said: “The day is about introducing the children to the idea that there are other jobs out there. We’re not just giving them a fun day out, we’re giving them something to think about when they go home.”
Councillor Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth, West Suffolk Council said: “We have been involved in Skills Escalator Days since their inception and value the impact they have. The primary school aged pupils engage with such enthusiasm to the range of career opportunities showcased and leave inspired and motivated each time. I am delighted that Eastern Education Group continue to arrange these events across West Suffolk as they provide a fantastic opportunity for the children who attend.”
Harini Jeyakumar, Healthy Behaviours Coordinator at Eastern Education Group, worked with the children to make smoothies using a ‘sustainability bike’. She said: “The bike teaches them about physical activity as well as making the smoothie using their own energy. It’s important to learn that you can make your own healthy drinks rather than opting for fizzy, sugary drinks. It teaches the children to try different things and have an open mind.”
Paediatric Recovery Nurse, Charlene Carol Newman, from Addenbrooke’s Hospital, showed children how to bandage up an injured teddy bear. She said: “It’s about engaging with them to find what they’re good at.”
Michelle Hargest, a teacher from Clements Primary Academy, said: “This is the first time we’ve come to this event and it’s nice for the children to get more opportunities to see what they can achieve.”
All the children and staff in attendance from the local schools in Haverhill walked to the event, promoting the environmental and health benefits of walking.
Jasmine (seven) from Clements Primary Academy said that her favourite part of the day was “making smoothies and learning about health.”
