A NEW project aiming to help 27,000 young people in Bradford on their path towards a future career is being launched in Bradford.

The project is being led by social enterprise Ahead Partnership, and will design and deliver careers inspiration programmes for students.

Activities will include careers events, guest speakers, industry days, enterprise challenges and mock interviews.

Funded by The Careers & Enterprise Company, other groups involved in the project include the Government, Bradford Council and other local partners.

Ahead Partnership is now seeking businesses from across the district to get involved to help deliver the scheme.

The project has been created to prepare school leavers and young people for the world of work and provide an insight into the working environment.

Ahead Partnership has previously worked with local schools to address the skills gap, but the new funding has allowed the project to be significantly expanded.

Stephanie Burras, chief executive of Ahead Partnership, said: “This funding has allowed us to accelerate the great work we’ve already been doing in Bradford.

“The 2018 Autumn term marks the start of an exciting programme of work alongside businesses to deliver the skills and careers support which will help young people raise aspirations and develop the vital skills needed to get a head start as they embark upon their careers.

“We’ve been working with employers in the region for more than a decade but we now need the whole business community to come together to capitalise on this fantastic opportunity to inspire and support the city’s young people.

“The skills challenge we face as a region can only be solved when business and education work closely together.

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, added: “The work Ahead Partnership is doing in Bradford provides a real chance for young people to learn new skills and develop their knowledge.

“There has already been a brilliant attitude and response to the work Ahead Partnership have been doing and I know the business leaders in this city will rally round the cause to help their local communities.

“It’s crucial we support the younger generation to help them reach their potential and promote the city as a great place to live, work and do business.”

Businesses that wish to join the project are asked to call 0300 1240496, or email gemma.silver@aheadpartnership.org.uk