SCHOOL pupils have formed a link with a prominent local business to help boost careers and the economy.
St Aidan's High School in Derrylin has established a Business Insights Partnership with Quinn Industrial Holdings (QIH).
It is designed to address identified gaps between the needs of employers and historical outcomes achieved by GCSE pupils in that area of Fermanagh.
The initiative is due to be launched this week.
Politicians from various parties along with representatives from the Department of Education and Education and Training Inspectorate are expected to attend.
QIH will be represented by senior directors.
St Aidan's principal Pat McTeggart said the partnership would help build a strong working relationship with QIH that would be of mutual benefit.
Mr McTeggart said it would also create opportunities for St Aidan's pupils to play their part in growing the economic prosperity of their community.
Specifically, planned activities throughout the school term will include:
:: The creation of a series of business insight opportunities which will facilitate teacher and student access to in-depth QIH business knowledge, techniques and personnel
:: QIH will host four focused site visits annually aligned with the curriculum study schedule
:: Discussion forums and case-study sessions, facilitated by QIH, on set topics will be scheduled each term to encourage interaction, real-life experience learning and practical understanding of more complex topics
:: Assisting the school in the development of industry-specific accredited courses in areas such as sustainability, health and safety and construction
The aim is to provide young people with the information they need to understand if a business career is an option for their future.
It is also hoped to reverse a `brain drain' of business talent out of the area by showing more clearly the opportunities that are available locally.
In addition, pupils will be provided with a basic level of skills, for those entering the workforce after GCSE, and have a head-start if advancing to A-level and beyond.
Relevant work experience will also be available including paid work placements.
"This is an important new offering to our GCSE students and the scope and detail of this partnership is the type of collaboration that is recognised as best practice between schools and private industry," Mr McTeggart said.
"In an environment of constrained education budgets, it helps schools to continue to access infrastructure and resources in a way that would not otherwise be available. The opportunity to share resources and allow staff of QIH and St Aidan's to share in professional development opportunities is an exciting development that enhances our education framework in the county."
