City of Bristol College has partnered with Midsomer Norton based, global workwear brand, Dickies to support students and apprentices who are preparing for a career in a range of vocational and technical trades and professions.
As part of a commitment to inspire the next generation of workforce, the partnership with Dickies is aimed at raising ambitions and supporting high expectations for students and apprentices, and helping them focus on developing their professional behaviours as they prepare to start their careers. It will also provide extended opportunities for learning through a co-delivery of specific curriculum content with the focus on employability and personal development.
The partnership may include a series of Dickies sponsored talks by inspirational speakers and mentors and sponsorship of the College’s Student Awards, in addition to items of specialist clothing and student induction packs to help students and apprentices with their studies and development.
Emma Jarman, Vice Principal – Curriculum and Quality commented: “A skilled, knowledgeable and motivated workforce is an essential ingredient for building a strong and sustainable economy. Our students were delighted with their Dickies induction packs containing essential items to help them make good progress in their studies and career development.
“Our partnership with Dickies will enable us to continue developing rich and stimulating learning experiences of our students and apprentices through co-design and co-delivery of our curriculum and engagement with current and highly respected industry practitioners.”
“As part of Dickies’ commitment to instil pride in the next generation of tradespeople – and to challenge the traditional perception that choosing to work in ‘the trades’ is a somewhat inferior choice to other jobs and career opportunities – we’re excited to be working with City of Bristol College,” said James Whitaker, Marketing Director for Dickies.
“Workwear can play a big part in feeling confident and ready to do a good job, but we know that’s just one aspect to starting a career on the right note. By supporting colleges like this to motivate and encourage students and apprentices, we hope we can make a difference to the careers of future tradespeople.”
Dickies’ activity with City of Bristol College will support all students and apprentices aged 16-18. Those studying in the fields of plumbing, carpentry, electrical and construction programmes, horticulture, engineering, motor vehicle maintenance and animal care will additionally benefit from opportunities specifically related to their chosen industry.
