Bishop Burton College: Strengthening partnerships between industry and education

Aimed at bridging the gap between industry professionals and the education sector, Enterprise Advisors were introduced by the Careers & Enterprise Company to influence and improve overall careers vision, strategy and provision in colleges to positively impact young people now and for generations to come.

Bishop Burton was matched with Miranda Spencer, Group HR Director of Cranswick Country Foods.

Given the college’s already extensive links with employers, through employer input into curriculum design and delivery, employer talks, visits, T Level placements and work experience, Miranda’s role is as a ‘critical friend’ to the college’s careers coordinator and careers leader.

With 17 years of invaluable experience at national food production company Cranswick Country Foods, Miranda has shared a wealth of insights and expertise.

She has been a perfect fit in supporting the careers team at Bishop Burton to establish solid foundations for successful career pathways.

Establishing strong relationships with local colleges and schools is a top priority for Miranda and she is passionate about employer integration with education as early as Primary School.

"Some career options are often not widely known, particularly in the food and drink industry, so it's vital for industry professionals to proactively connect with students and educators to build their knowledge of the opportunities available to young people. Growing and strengthening these bonds is crucial," she says.

“I feel very strongly that it is vitally important to secure employment opportunities for young people in the local area. It’s so rewarding coming onto campus and opening students’ eyes to the diverse range of options available to them.”

Miranda has supported the careers team with guidance on the complexities of career decisions and necessary qualifications. "Reflecting on personal interests, strengths, aspirations, and conducting thorough research are vital to charting a viable path forward," she advises.

Drawing from her knowledge, Miranda encourages students to embrace curiosity and explore diverse avenues. "It's never too late to redirect your career path and discover new passions along the way," she said.

Careers Coordinator Amanda Millson, said: “Working with Miranda has been fantastic as she has real dedication to empowering young individuals to pursue rewarding careers. We have been able to inspire and encourage young talent to dream big and make meaningful contributions to society.”

“We’re so pleased that the relationship will continue and I am looking forward to working with Miranda to support even more students realise their career ambitions. Some 98% of our students progressed onto positive destinations last year and that is down to the combination of a specialist curriculum delivered in industry-standard facilities so that our students can make their next best step with confidence.”

The start of any successful career is selecting the right course.

The college holds regular Open Days that enable prospective students to experience a wide range of activities, tours of the outstanding facilities and discover more about course provision. The careers team are also on hand to help individuals make informed decisions to realise their potential and grow a sustainable and rewarding future.

Register for an Open Event now at www.bishopburton.ac.uk/college/the-college/open-events.

Applications are open now for all courses - www.bishopburton.ac.uk

For more information call 01964 553000.