Career-focused students to be given special awards

Twenty outstanding students will be one step ahead of the rest in the career stakes after achieving employability awards being piloted at Edge Hill University.

The University launched its first ever Employability Programme last year and can today reveal that its first 20 students have passed with flying colours.

Endorsed by the Institute of Leadership and Management - Europe's largest provider of these prestigious qualifications - the awards focus on enabling students to develop key employability skills such as team working, problem solving and decision making.

The 20 students who took part in the new scheme juggled their normal studies and paid part-time work to take part in a variety of activities outside of University life to enhance their leadership and management skills.

As a result they have achieved their ILM endorsed qualification and will be equipped not only with the specialist knowledge and skills gained via their subject of study, but also with the generic employability skills required for all jobs. This will then give them more confidence in getting a graduate job.

Two of the students who took part in the scheme have also been offered sandwich year placements at Enterprise Rentacar, UK's second largest graduate recruiter, because they impressed them so much with their newfound skills.

Sue Hepworth, Senior Careers Advisor and who led the Employability Programme, said: "In an increasingly demanding job market it is our responsibility to increase the employability of our students and this is a core part of our mission. To meet demand from government, industry and the higher education sector we decided to trial this new programme to ensure that our graduates are  equipped with a full range of skills to help them get a foot in the door when it comes to securing graduate-level jobs or on the ladder to securing one.

"This is the first time that we have run this programme and it has been a huge success. All 20 students have passed with flying colours, which is such a great achievement. They have shown real dedication, motivation and enthusiasm whilst on the course and each and every one of them should be proud of themselves."

The 20 students will receive their certificates at a glittering awards ceremony on 20^th April at Edge Hill University.

The students who took part have been just as enthusiastic about the programme. Here's what some have said...

"I have learnt not only important information regarding CV's, job applications and assessment centres which will help in gaining future employment, I have gained many personal skills. This includes developing my leadership skills, team work and management skills.  I would recommend this module to every student as I personally believe it gives you the confidence and employability skills needed to ensure you get the best job possible. This programme has inspired me to go further in life."  Charlotte Veitch, from Crosby, who is studying Childhood and Youth Studies. 

 "Before this programme I was scared about finding a job after finishing my degree, but now I feel more confident. I have gained new friends and opportunities, I have learned more on interviews, CV's and applications for future jobs and other points. I would always tell other students about the brilliant opportunities offered by this programme, I've loved every minute.  I've developed my skills and made new friends." Olivia Fairhurst, from Netheron, who is studying English Language and Literature.

"Because of this programme, I have a new perspective on my potential. This programme has taught me about teamwork, problem solving, management and leadership as well as other skills in a very developed manner. I would 100% recommend this to other students.  It is in graduate employability terms the BEST thing I have done/achieved at University. I enjoyed the diversity of the group and view it as an equal opportunity for all." Ayeshia Daly, from Darlington, who is studying Sociology and Criminology.