The Ashfield Aim Higher Scheme managed by Ashfield District Council is now supported through the European Regional Development Fund and is going from strength to strength.

A promotional DVD has been produced which demonstrates the wide range of projects undertaken across a diverse set of sectors and working environments bringing some real business benefits to local companies. All of the students who participated said that they had found the experience invaluable in respect of their studies as well as gaining a real insight into the real work environment. Many of the students said that they hadn't appreciated the range of good quality employment opportunities now available to them in Ashfield and would certainly consider returning to the area when they leave university.

Businesses of varying sizes participated in the scheme and all said that they had been very impressed with the level of capability and initiative shown by the students and felt that it had been a cost effective exercise requiring minimal input in terms of time from them. They all reported numerous benefits to their business and said they would recommend the scheme to other employers. Simon Hawkins from Lindhurst Engineering said,

“Having a person with a fresh perspective with no pre-conceptions of how something should work has been really useful. The supply chain management project undertaken by the student will ultimately lead to a better service being provided by suppliers to the company”.

Frank Horsley, Head of Community and Economic Promotion at the District Council said,

“The Ashfield Aim Higher Scheme provides students with a quality project placement that is linked to their studies as well as giving local businesses support in developing new ideas and processes through working with bright young people. Encouraging talented young people to come back to work in Ashfield is an important part of ensuring local skills are retained in the district for the benefit of the local economy. This project is proving to be a great success with obvious business benefits. I would encourage local companies to take part in the scheme and make use of the skills available on their doorstep”.

Any businesses or students interested in participating in the scheme in the future should contact Ella O'Connor at Ashfield District Council on 01623 457303 or by e-mail at e.oconnor@ashfield-dc.gov.uk.

Photo: Some of the Students who attended the presentation are pictured with Cllr. John Wilmott, Deputy Leader of the Council.