Nurturing local talent in the North West

Blackburn College and the Blackburn office of accountants and business advisors Beever and Struthers have been working together to ensure that local talent stays within the region by offering work placements to students at the University Centre at Blackburn College.

Students from the University Centre at Blackburn College have taken part in guided tours, workshops and discussions at Beever and Struthers’ Blackburn office, resulting in Jodie Dunne (28) being selected for a personalised work placement programme.

Jodie, who has recently been awarded a First for her BA (Hons) Business Accounting Degree programme at the University Centre at Blackburn College, impressed staff at Beever and Struthers so much that they offered her full time employment in the firm’s Blackburn office.

Iain Round, Partner at Beever and Struthers said: “We were absolutely delighted to offer Jodie a role at Beever and Struthers. We often struggle to find the right kind of talent locally and feel that Accountancy graduates are seduced by the bright city lights rather than taking advantage of the opportunities available to them with local firms.

“Our partnership with the University Centre at Blackburn College has allowed us access to Accountancy students before they finish their degree and the opportunity to highlight the fantastic opportunities available locally.

“I would certainly encourage other local businesses to engage with similar programmes as there are many benefits to both students and employers and it is something that we hope to continue with the University Centre at Blackburn College, throughout the next academic year.”

Jodie said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been offered full time employment with Beever and Struthers and can’t wait to start. This opportunity will allow me to gain experience whilst also studying for my Chartered Accountancy exams and has been a fantastic culmination to a great three years at the University Centre at Blackburn College.

“I have gained so much from engaging in work experience and feel that it is has helped to shape my future ambitions whilst also providing me with valuable employability skills.”

Nicholas Hall, Business Engagement Manager at Blackburn College said: “We are delighted with the success of this programme and believe very strongly in the importance of forging links with local and national businesses.

“In today’s competitive job market, work-ready skills are vital in order to help students stand out from the crowd and ensure that they graduate with key employability skills and the latest in industry-relevant experience.

“By working together with local businesses, our students receive valuable guidance and support from industry experts whilst also providing employers with the opportunity to nurture students before they leave the region.

“We look forward to continuing this partnership with Beever and Struthers and would like to thank the HIVE for their support. If any businesses would like to mirror this model and offer placements to students, please get in touch at business@blackburn.ac.uk.” Applications to study at Blackburn College are now open for Autumn 2018. Discover your perfect course and apply online at www.blackburn.ac.uk or speak to one of our friendly advisors on 01254 292929.