bp: enhancing learning in schools
Background
bp has been working with Reach Academy, Feltham (which is both a primary and secondary school) for two years. The project involved Year 6 pupils in their last year of primary school.
This case study records the activities undertaken by bp to support the school, the impacts and outcomes and key learnings for the future.
The partnership foundations
The relationship was initiated through bp’s School Link programme. Through this relationship, bp met and worked with a range of stakeholders at the school including members of teaching staff and the Headteacher. Over the years bp has provided the school with mentors, workshops, and work experience.
Adapting to deliver through the pandemic
During the coronavirus pandemic, bp quickly adapted to delivering virtual experiences for students. Building upon the range of resources already available to schools. bp launched a range of online activities which enabled interaction with employee volunteers such as the Ultimate STEM Challenge for primary schools and Virtual Work Experience for secondary schools and sixth form colleges.
In the future bp intends to continue delivering virtually as well as online as this has allowed the company to reach many more students than it has ever reached before.
Impacts and outcomes
- Pupil attainment in STEM subjects for this cohort was measured far above the national average at the end of the school year.
- Teachers and staff noted a distinct improvement in pupil attitudes towards STEM – especially science – particularly for pupils of high prior attainment.
- Two specific pupils who were previously disengaged from their science lessons showed a marked improvement in their attitudes throughout the project.
- Pupil feedback was positive about both the content and structure of the programme.
Business in the Community’s work on employment and skills
Business in the Community (BITC) supports organisations to create meaningful employment. This is one of the most significant ways that business contributes to individuals’ and communities’ livelihoods and is for many the only sustainable route out of poverty.
Offering quality work experience, adopting new recruitment approaches, and breaking down barriers to entering work for people from disadvantaged groups can benefit business by tackling skills shortages, building new talent pipelines, boosting retention rates, and achieving higher productivity.
Next step
Business in the Community’s (BITC) Community Advisers support businesses to create a skilled and inclusive workforce by embedding essential skills and building successful education partnerships through our Business Class framework. Our advisers can also work with you to design and develop sustainable and impactful initiatives to build stronger relationships within your communities.
Contact our Advisory Service Team to find out more