Shireland Collegiate Academy is delighted to announce that it has been awarded a significant grant of £83,742 from the Turing Scheme. This funding will enable 30 year 13 students to embark on a transformative 10-day work placement trip to Dubai in January 2025.
This achievement highlights the Academy’s dedication to providing exceptional opportunities for its students. Only a select number of schools in the West Midlands successfully secure funding through this highly competitive programme.
The Turing Scheme, a UK government initiative, offers life-changing international work experiences, internships and study opportunities for young people. Open to UK and British overseas training and educational sectors, it aims to equip learners with essential skills and global perspectives needed to thrive in their future careers. With a nationwide allocation of £105 million, the programme prioritises projects that promote social mobility, offering additional funding for students from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds.
This ethos aligns with Shireland Collegiate Academy’s core values, ensuring that career-building opportunities like this are accessible to all students, regardless of background. The Academy’s sixth form students will gain placements in various roles within the travel and tourism, business, and design and technology industries, offering firsthand exposure to one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.
Thomas Daly, Associate Principal at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “This will be an incredible experience for our students, enhancing both their academic learning and their professional development. Importantly, the grant allows us to create opportunities for students who might not otherwise have access to such experiences, helping to broaden their horizons and prepare them for future opportunities beyond sixth form.”
Following a rigorous application and interview process, students will be informed of their allocated work placement two weeks before the trip. Each student is guaranteed a placement tailored to their career aspirations and interests, ensuring meaningful engagement with their chosen industries.
