Asda pioneers a transformative school engagement initiative to cultivate career skills in students.
- Targeting primary to college levels, the program spans ten West Yorkshire schools.
- Focus is placed on sustainable practices and real industry challenges to engage students.
- Students from disadvantaged backgrounds are encouraged to participate, enhancing inclusivity.
- The initiative aligns with global sustainability goals to broaden students’ career perspectives.
Asda has embarked on a forward-thinking initiative designed to foster career skills among students through a structured school engagement program. This pioneering effort will unfold across ten educational institutions in West Yorkshire over the span of an academic year, impacting pupils from primary through to college levels.
This initiative is notable for its inclusive approach, aiming to provide students from disadvantaged backgrounds with enhanced opportunities to engage with the diverse career spectrum within the food and drink industry. By aligning its curriculum with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and incorporating key Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) themes, the program seeks to enlighten participants on critical issues such as food waste, circular economies, and inclusivity.
For primary level students, the program offers insights into sustainability issues, with a focus on food waste and hunger. These younger students will collaborate with local Asda Community Champions to conceptualize and implement projects aimed at improving their local communities. This interaction is designed to build foundational knowledge and proactive engagement in societal contributions.
Secondary school students will delve into a year-long ‘concept to shelf’ project, highlighting the myriad career prospects within a retail giant like Asda. With an emphasis on the creation of a sustainable vegan product, this task not only enhances their understanding of retail dynamics but also fosters crucial employability skills such as confidence, teamwork, critical thinking, and public speaking.
Meanwhile, college students are tasked with providing solutions to real-world business challenges in areas concerning equality, diversity, and sustainability. This exercise is facilitated through a Dragons Den-style presentation, mentored by Asda professionals. Such experiences are further enriched by participation in Asda-led events that offer insights into areas such as product development, merchandising, technology, and distribution.
Hayley Tatum, Asda’s Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer, expresses hope that through this initiative, students will develop an acute awareness of pressing global challenges while gaining exposure to the extensive career opportunities available at Asda and within the broader food and drink sector.
This comprehensive engagement program not only empowers students but also aligns educational pursuits with global sustainability and career readiness.
