A scheme inspiring schoolchildren to fulfil their potential is inviting women in the workplace to participate in its latest initiative.

Inspiring the Future – which connects students with the world of work – is holding Inspiring Women Week on the Island from 21st to 25th March 2016.

Inspiring the Future launched the Inspiring Women campaign in 2013 and it has already connected up 17,000 women with schools across the British Isles. Politicians, TV personalities, authors and journalists, pop stars and sports personalities have all taken part. It’s hoped to have 20,000 women involved by next year.

Ramsey Grammar School will host a speed dating-style event on Wednesday 23rd March at which women from a wide variety of workplaces will circulate, speaking with boys and girls in Year 9 who are choosing their exam options.

Other local primary and secondary schools will hold events as part of the initiative.

Annette Baker, Headteacher of Ramsey Grammar School, is the local organiser of Inspiring the Future.

She said: ‘Inspiring the Future helps schools forge partnerships with employers who provide students with the motivation, knowledge, skills and opportunities they need to help them achieve their potential and contribute to the economy.

‘The Inspiring Women campaign invites women to speak with students about what they do, why they do it, any barriers they have overcome and the rewards they reap.

‘The aim is to challenge workplace stereotyping and encourage girls to consider careers in a wide variety of areas.
‘We hope women from all walks of life in the Island, whether a company CEO or an 18-year-old apprentice, will support our event and /or work with their local school to offer their unique insight into the world of work.’

Mrs Baker continued: ‘So often, students make a career choice after meeting someone who inspires them. It’s hoped that boys, too, will be further motivated to success by meeting inspirational women and that schools will develop lasting partnerships with women in the workplace.’

The Hon Clare Christian, President of Tynwald, who was a guest of honour at last year’s local launch of Inspiring the Future, has agreed to support the March event.

To sign up for the event and/or to link up with local schools www.inspiringthefuture.org/regional-partners/, email headteacher@rgs.sch.im or ring 01624 811100.

Photo - Annette Baker