THE National Literacy Trust is appealing for Bradford businesses to take groups of employees into a local academy to help young people prepare for the world of work.

The charity, which is dedicated to raising literacy levels in the UK, is launching its new Words for Work programme at Hanson Academy in Bradford in June.

Focused on demonstrating the importance of literacy in achieving employment success, the project is seeking to improve pupils' communication skills to boost confidence in their own abilities.

Imran Hafeez, manager of the charity's Bradford Hub, said: "We’re delighted to be launching the National Literacy Trust’s Words for Work programme in Bradford.

"It is a fantastic experience for young people who are beginning to think about potential future careers to get an insight into the world of work.

"We need volunteers from different backgrounds who have a range of roles and have had various experiences in the workplace to share the insights which have shaped their own careers.

"It’s a great opportunity for volunteers who will be rewarded through seeing young people’s skills and confidence develop as they think about the skills they will need for their future careers."

Susan Hinchcliffe, Bradford Council’s executive member for education, skills, and culture, added: "I’m delighted the National Literacy Trust has managed to secure this funding for Bradford.

"It’s really important for our young people to be aware of what’s needed in the world of work, so bringing business volunteers into schools is really helpful.

"It also fits with our ambitions in the Bradford Education Covenant, which asks for every part of the Bradford community to get involved in raising our children’s level of achievement."

The charity is looking for 25 volunteers from a wide range of professions and industries to help with a one-day event on June 21, working with all year nine pupils from the school to help with their interview skills and talk about experiences in their professional life.

Six volunteers are also being sought to spend a full week in the school from June 20, working with a dedicated group of 20 year nine pupils on a series of literacy activity workshops exploring body language, effective questioning, and presentation skills.

No previous experience of teaching or working with young people is necessary as full training will be provided.

To express an interest in becoming a Words for Work volunteer in Bradford, visit www.literacytrust.org.uk/words_for_work/Bradford.