Following a successful pilot programme, Toyota New Zealand is sponsoring another seven Work Inspiration Programmes for young people through its dealership network.
Work Inspiration is an employer-led programme, supported by Careers New Zealand, to give students valuable insights into how a business runs, and help prepare them for work.
International research shows young people who have just four or more contacts with employers while at school are five times more likely to be employed.
“This study confirms the importance of creating meaningful work exploration opportunities for school students,” says Education to Employment Connections Trust member, Hugh Kettlewell.
“Following the success of last year’s pilot in our Manukau dealership we’re supporting the Work Inspiration programme for 2016 – with seven more Toyota dealerships opening their doors to young people in the regions,” says the chief executive officer of Toyota New Zealand Alistair Davis.
“The programme provides us with invaluable insights into the next wave of employees while giving them a chance to learn about all facets of our business and consider a career in the automotive industry,” says Davis.
Kettlewell says the programme is hugely beneficial to employers as they can gain young people’s perspectives on how their business currently works and how it could work in the future.
“By supporting local students’ future employment prospects, companies also gain a platform to connect with the wider school and parent community,” says Kettlewell.
