POST primary schools in Limerick are benefiting from an innovative business partnership programme, linking local businesses with pupil’s education programmes.

The aim of the programme is to encourage students who are at risk of leaving school early to continue with their studies with the advice of business mentors, CV workshops and interview skills sessions, company visits, talks by employers from local businesses and a summer work placement programme.

Funded under the National Development Plan with assistance from the European Social Fund, it is the only business to education programme in Ireland that is jointly funded by both business and the DES.
Currently eight schools in Limerick are linked with local businesses including: Desmond College Newcastle West, Colaiste Mhichil CBS Limerick, St Nessan’s CC Moylish, Presentation SS Limerick, Salesian SS Fernbank, Crescent College Comprehensive, St Enda’s CS, Limerick and Colaiste Chiarain.
The businesses, which are matched to these schools in Limerick are: Ballygowan, Heiton Buckley Builders Providers, Limerick Institute of Technology, Limerick Live 95FM, O2, Sercom Solutions, Vistakon Irelandand Anglo Irish Bank.
Speaking at the launch, Minister O’Keeffe welcomed the report and acknowledged the significant nationwide contribution of the programme,

“The Schools’ Business Partnership is a unique and innovative programme that provides practical advice and guidance to young people. By harnessing the power of business, it delivers tangible benefits to the education system. It prepares students for the working world and therefore adds value to our economy as it opens up a world of opportunities and career choices,” Minister O’Keeffe said.

The initiative now operates in 21 counties and over 9000 students have participated to date.

The latest annual report of the Schools’ Business Partnership revealed that 40 new companies in Ireland got involved during the programme during 2007/2008 bringing the total schools and businesses linked in the country to 140.

“The Irish business sector now realise that this is not just the right thing to do but a very important strategic requirement for the long term sustainability of their organisations,” said Pauric O’Grady, Chair of the Schools’ Business Partnership.

A participating student from St Nessan’s CC, Moylish, Limerick commented on his experiences of the programme adding: “This programme has influenced my thinking on the importance of completing school. I realise if I do my Leaving Cert it will open more jobs for me”.
Established in 2001, Schools’ Business Partnership (SBP) is a flagship programme managed by Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI).

It is conducted in association with Marks & Spencer Ireland and supported by Cadburys.

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment