I recently came across this organisation based in Bedford and discovered they have a truly innoavtive approach to reaching into schools and working effectively with young people, parents, teachers and employers. The numbers of young people using the service is impressive i.e. over 230,000. Much of this engagement is achieved through The Foundation’s state-of-the art website, b-live.com, which provides impartial, engaging and high-quality careers IAG (information and guidance).
Great to find The b-live Foundation has joined the Institute of Career Guidance and works to a code of ethical practice (sometimes overlooked by social enterprises).
Through the site, young people can access personalised careers and learning information, use a CV generator, apply for jobs and apprenticeships – all specifically created to help young people make informed career decisions and support their transition from education into employment whatever their background.
The b-live has recently been approached by the Cabinet Office to undertake surveys with young people, parents and teachers over a three-four year period designed to find out more about their views of careers education and guidance and the world of work. They plan to launch a new research facility very shortly that will help illuminate the realities of indivduals' views and experiences of 21st century education and employment.
This an exciting initiative which clearly bridges the gap between education and employer opportunities. Each time I ask a question about the work of this organsiation, I learn more and more - it's very clear that listening to YOUNG PEOPLE and CONNECTING THEM TO THE WORLD OF WORK is what really drives this organisation.
