Working Knowledge is a brilliant Social Enterprise, who invited me to join their 'Splash' event in Bromsgrove on the 15th March 2012.
My role? An Expert!
I have never been an ’Expert’ before, so it was a real treat.
I was an Expert from the business community together with other business experts, who were all there to support 17 / 18 year olds from Northeast Worcestershire College, to become enlightened about business through the vehicle of a one-day experiential event, allowing them to innovate, create and visualise their own entrepreneurial spirit.
I had never done anything like it before and so did not know what to expect.
What was it like? In one word...OUTSTANDING!
Basically the event is a cross between Dragons Den and the Apprentice and as a local business I played the role of ‘expert’ advising students from the local College on their new business ideas. Working Knowledge is a Social Enterprise and Nationally Award Winning educational training company founded by Dr James Lott.
The events Working Knowledge run have been shown to have a profound impact on the students and tutors in colleges throughout UK, bridging the gap between education and the workplace. As a business expert volunteer I played an integral role in the success of the event and thereby raise the aspirations of young people in my region.
Here's my testimonial MindMap and Video, which was the best way for me to articulate what I thought of the whole day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcQmefmSKCc
And why does Working Knowledge exist?
They believe that for the UK economy to grow and for communities to thrive, young people need to be inspired by, and better prepared for, the world of work. We need young people that are more confident, purposeful and responsible and can therefore provide a sustained flow of talent and energy into the local economy. Their vision cannot be achieved by educators alone, the business community HAS to be involved in the education process.
What a great vision!
There is a website http://www.workingknowledge.org.uk/business-experts/overview/ where you can find out more about the expert role. If you are interested in becoming involved then please register here http://events.workingknowledge.org.uk/profile/new?type=expert and Working Knowledge will contact you when a suitable event comes up in your area.
If you have any questions then contact Ollie Collard on 0117 304 8000 or email ollie.collard@workingknowledge.org.uk
I hope you do take up the opportunity. It really is one worth doing.
Success!