Creating a Brighter Future Together: How DMA Supports The Leigh UTC and T-Level Students
In today’s evolving educational landscape, partnerships between businesses and educational institutions are becoming increasingly vital. We are extremely proud of our collaboration with The Leigh UTC, focusing on supporting the next generation of talent through the innovative T-Level programme.
Recently, Steve McGregor, DMA’s Managing Director, had the opportunity to speak at the launch of Leigh UTC’s ‘Routes to Success’ program, where he shared insights from his personal journey and experiences within the facilities management industry. During his talk, Steve highlighted the significant changes our industry has undergone and the ongoing transformations that are shaping its future. He discussed DMA’s commitment to excellence and the diverse career opportunities available within industry, emphasising the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Drawing from his own experiences, he provided valuable advice to students, encouraging them to remain curious, embrace challenges, and actively seek growth opportunities as they embark on their professional paths.
Who is The Leigh UTC?
The Leigh UTC (University Technical College) is a unique educational institution specialising in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Their mission is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in engineering and technology careers. With a focus on high-quality technical education, The Leigh UTC aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
What is the T-Level Program?
T-Levels are a new qualification in England, designed to be equivalent to three A-Levels. These qualifications combine classroom learning with on-the-job experience, offering students a comprehensive education that prepares them for the workforce. At The Leigh UTC, T-Level subjects focus on technical education and skills development, providing students with a solid foundation for their future careers.
What is Leigh UTC’s Routes to Success Program?
Leigh UTC’s Routes to Success Program is an innovative three-week initiative designed for Year 12 students, offering insights into future careers and higher education. It features exclusive talks from industry leaders, as well as alumni sharing their experiences. The program also introduces modern concepts such as Brand Archetypes, helping students align their skills with potential employers. A highlight includes a trip to London for campus visits and museum exhibitions, alongside practical experiences like applying for real company roles. The program aims to bridge the gap between education and industry, providing students with a competitive edge and opportunities for apprenticeships.
DMA Group’s Support for The Leigh UTC and T-Level Students
Organisations like ours can play a crucial role in supporting today’s students through various initiatives.
Engaging in speaking engagements at institutions such as The Leigh UTC allows professionals to share valuable insights on industry trends, career advice, and essential technical skills. These sessions expose students to real-world experiences and inspire them to see the practical applications of their studies, as well as the opportunities that await them in their chosen fields.
Offering work experience opportunities to T-Level students is vital. This hands-on experience helps students grasp workplace dynamics while actively participating in roles and tasks relevant to their studies. Such experiences equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in future careers.
Additionally, apprenticeship programmes that align closely with T-Level studies provide a smooth transition from education to employment. These programmes not only offer hands-on experience but also mentorship, allowing students to develop their skills and establish a solid foundation for their careers. Success stories from current and former apprentices showcase the positive impact of these initiatives.
Lastly, mentoring initiatives are essential in providing personalised support, career guidance, and skills development. By offering one-on-one guidance alongside group sessions, organisations ensure that students receive the tailored support they need to succeed. This personalised approach nurtures confidence and equips students with the skills required for their future careers.
In summary, organisations have a responsibility to actively support students through these initiatives, helping them navigate their educational journeys and prepare for successful futures.
Creating Positive Impact
Our commitment to supporting The Leigh UTC and their T-Level students is a prime example of the positive impact that industry-education partnerships can have. By providing speaking engagements, work experience, apprenticeships, and mentoring, DMA is helping to shape the future of the next generation of professionals.
“I just wanted to express our sincere gratitude for your engagement with our Routes to Success program. Your support has been invaluable, particularly through the presentations, talks, and job specifications you’ve provided. These contributions have significantly enriched our students’ understanding of your industry and the opportunities available at DMA.
Your continued partnership in nurturing the next generation of talent is deeply appreciated. We believe this collaboration is beneficial not only for our students but also for your company in identifying promising future employees.
Thank you again for your time, effort, and commitment to our program. We look forward to continuing our partnership and to the upcoming interviews.”
– Syreeta Martin, Director of Learning for Post 16, The Leigh UTC
“Working closely with today’s students is not just an investment in their future; it’s an investment in the future of our industry. These young minds are the professionals of tomorrow, and we take great pride in having the opportunity to engage actively with The Leigh UTC. By collaborating with educational institutions, we can foster their growth and innovation, ensuring that we have the best talent ready to tackle the challenges ahead.”
— Steve McGregor, Managing Director, DMA Group