Celebrating a decade of Early Careers support for Worcestershire

Launched in 2015, Early Careers Worcestershire has grown into one of the UK’s most ambitious and effective programmes, supporting schools to deliver exciting, practical careers activities from primary age upwards.

At its core, Early Careers Worcestershire connects schools and businesses, a trailblazing, county-wide network bridging education and employment. 

Backed by Worcestershire County Council, the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP), and the Careers & Enterprise Company, the initiative unites schools, colleges, employers and partners with a shared mission: to empower young people with the knowledge, experiences, and confidence to shape their futures.

To mark the milestone, a celebration event was held at Visit Worcestershire New Road, home of Worcestershire County Cricket Club, on Wednesday 30 July. 

Guests included many of those who have shaped the programme over the last decade – including business leaders, senior education figures, and nationally recognised voices in employment and careers advice. As well as some of the schools whose pupils have benefited from Early Careers Worcestershire.

Councillor Alan Amos, Worcestershire County Council's Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills, said, “Congratulations to all involved in delivering a decade of success through Early Careers. Giving young people real insight into the world of work is vital if we want to secure Worcestershire’s economic future. But this work is for all ages—people across their life course need access to careers advice and job opportunities. That’s what strengthens lives and drives local growth. Early Careers plays a key role in that ambition and continues to set the bar nationally.”

From its beginnings under Inspiring Worcestershire, Early Careers has helped thousands of learners while supporting schools to meet the Gatsby Benchmarks and build lasting links with employers. 

Since 2015, its collaboration with the Careers & Enterprise Company has significantly expanded its reach and impact, and now makes up part of Careers Worcestershire, whose mantra is ‘Creating Worcestershire’s Future Workforce’.

Judy Gibbs, Director of Skills for WLEP and Head of Skills & Employability at Worcestershire County Council, said, “At the heart of this journey has been a shared belief: that no young person should be left behind. We want to ensure that every pupil has the support and understanding they need to make informed choices that lead to meaningful employment that can benefit our county. Whether post-16 through sixth form, further or higher education, apprenticeships or supported internships - every young person deserves the support to reach their potential and contribute to Worcestershire’s economy. This work has helped our partners intervene early and direct support where it's needed most. That combination of partnership and purpose is what makes this model so effective.”

In addition to school-based delivery, the Early Careers team leads the Worcestershire Skills Expo each March, the region’s biggest skills show for young adults, plus the Life Beyond School SEND Skills Expo every September. 

The team also run the Primary STEM Challenge, connecting pupils with local engineering employers to solve real-world challenges and partners with The Curiosity Museum, a hands-on touring workshop that introduces pupils aged 10+ to the world of work.

To find out more about Early Careers Worcestershire please visit Worcestershire County Council's Skills webpages or email cec@worcestershire.gov.uk.