Enterprise Advisers

Who are enterprise advisers?

An enterprise adviser is a volunteer from business who works closely with the headteacher or senior leadership team of a school or college to provide strategic support.

What do they do?

They use their business experience and professional networks to help develop and implement an effective strategy that puts opportunities with local employers at the heart of a young person’s education.

They support their local school or college to deliver world-class careers guidance to their students, preparing and inspiring young people for the fast-changing world of work.

They build strong working relationships with schools and colleges and provide insight into the organisation, industry and the opportunities available in the local labour market.

How does an enterprise adviser add value to a school?

An enterprise adviser adds value by:

• Providing an employer’s perspective on what businesses are likely to be willing to do and what opportunities businesses would value
• Supporting the school’s senior leadership team to develop a strategic plan to ensure every young person receives a meaningful employer encounter and workplace experiences
• Engaging with local businesses and employers to encourage their involvement in activities at the school
• Helping the school to focus efforts on programmes and activities that are most effective in motivating young people, supporting independent choice and enabling positive outcomes for young people

Ridgeway High School’s enterprise adviser: Lee Shelley

Lee is based on the Wirral and is director of customer service and tender management at Medline Europe.