More than 200 pupils from schools and colleges across Cardiff are taking their first steps into the world of work this summer, thanks to the Cardiff Commitment's What's Next Award Work Experience Programme.

Running throughout June and July, the initiative is designed to equip young people with the skills, confidence, and insight they need to thrive in further education, employment, or training.

Tailored to align with each student's A-Level subjects and career aspirations, the programme connects pupils with over 60 leading employers across sectors such as construction, FinTech, creative industries, health, education, and more.

Participating schools include Cardiff West Community High School, Cantonian High School, Fitzalan High School, Whitchurch High School Specialist Resource Base (SRB), the Marion Centre at Bishop of Llandaff CiW High School and Cardiff and Vale College, as well as care-experienced young people.

In addition to the range of opportunities provided to young people, the initiative also offers a number of benefits to employers, including;

• Developing Future Talent: Spot and nurture potential future employees.
• Fresh Perspectives: Gain insight from students' generational viewpoints.
• Workforce Development: Strengthen leadership and mentoring skills.
• CSR & Inclusion: Support diverse young people and local communities.
• Brand Awareness: Build long-term visibility with future jobseekers.

Cardiff's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "The What's Next Award is a powerful example of how collaboration between education and industry can open doors for young people. By connecting students with real-world experiences, we're not only helping them shape their futures, we're building a stronger, more inclusive workforce for Cardiff."

The event follows on from the successful impact of last year's programme with key highlights including;

• 92% became more familiar with careers of interest
• 94% developed new skills
• 100% improved their understanding of workplace conduct
• 90% connected subject choices to future careers
• 92% felt better prepared for their future

Quotes from Employers:

"Hosting students allowed our team to reflect on the pride and purpose we hold in the Civil Service. Their energy brought a fresh perspective and we hope to welcome some back in the future." Nadine Davies, Group Director Wales, Civil Service.

"This programme gave us a great opportunity to promote nursing careers at a time when it's never been more important." Emma Bendle, Cardiff & Vale UHB.

"The pupils totally blew us away. Their attitude, behaviour, and contributions were exceptional." Jon Garbutt, Specialist Support Team Leader, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.

"The students were a pleasure to host. It's exciting to know they have such bright futures ahead." Helen John, Business Development Manager, Curtins.

The Cardiff Commitment supports the vision that the public, private and third sectors will work in partnership, with schools and education providers, to connect children and young people to the vast range of opportunities available in the world of work.

If you are a business who could offer post-16 employment, education or training opportunities or would be interested in highlighting the various pathways into your organisation or sector, the Cardiff Commitment team would like to hear from you.

For more information or to find out how your business can support the programme, please emailcardiffcommitment@cardiff.gov.ukwith the subject ‘What's Next Opportunities', including the link to the opportunity, supporting company logo, closing date and any eligibility criteria (18+ etc).

These will be promoted through the ‘What's Next?' website;whatsnextcardiff.co.uk- Aone-stop shop for 16 to 24-year-olds which offers a wealth of information on education, employment, training, and other opportunities in Cardiff. This platform simplifies the process of exploring available options, ensuring young people can make informed decisions about their futures.