How Derbyshire students can take part in virtual workplace tours to get careers advice in pandemic

Three virtual workplace tours for students across north east Derbyshire are taking place as part of National Careers Week.

By Michael Broomhead

Published 3rd Mar 2021, 12:30 BST

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Produced as part of the Made in Chesterfield campaign, the films feature three local businesses operating in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) sector – MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar (UCB) and Woodhead Construction.

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The films, which are available to view on YouTube, feature virtual tours of MSE Hiller’s workshop and laboratory, the UCB foundry and Chesterfield Borough Council’s new enterprise centre which is currently being built by Woodhead Construction.

Despite the recent announcement that students across the country will be returning to the classroom form March 8, social distancing restrictions will remain in place until at least June 21, preventing students undertaking vital workplace visits and work experience.

Despite the recent announcement that students across the country will be returning to the classroom form March 8, social distancing restrictions will remain in place until at least June 21, preventing students undertaking vital workplace visits and work experience.

Each of the inspiring films feature details of job roles available at each business, what they involve and qualifications and skills needed.

Produced by Chesterfield-based Defeye Creative, the films are designed to bridge the gap between education providers and businesses during the pandemic and answer the questions that young people are unable to ask while school trips are not allowed.

Ivan Fomin, managing director of MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield’s board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the borough, said: “I am delighted that we are able to take STEM experiences into the classroom and home.

“Although we are in the middle of a pandemic it is important that we continue to ensure that young people have access to education, training, jobs and work placements in Chesterfield’s STEM sector.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, the council’s deputy leader, said: “I’m delighted that local employers have taken part in this because it is vital to ensuring we build a thriving borough and create excellent opportunities for young people.”

All the virtual tours, as well as informative videos on each organisation, can be viewed at www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/tours-for-schools.

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Chesterfield Derbyshire Chesterfield Borough Council