Halesowen & Rowley Regis MP, James Morris, took part in Ormiston Forge Academy’s ‘Raising Aspiration’ day with year 8 students who were preparing to make their GCSE choices.
During the event students quizzed different professionals through ‘speed dating’ to find out more about what qualifications are needed for various jobs.
Representatives from Carillion, Barclays, the NHS and EEF were on hand to answer questions on what it’s like to work in each industry and the skills needed.
Year 8 students at Ormiston Forge are about to start making decisions which will alter their future career path, choosing GCSE options is one of the most important steps in secondary education. Students will choose additional GCSE’s to accompany compulsory subjects such as English, Science and Mathematics.
During the event MP James Morris was quizzed by different groups and gave a talk on aspiration. James said, “Careers can take many twists and turns. You can start off working in one area, and finish in a completely different one. If you told me when I was at school I’d be a Member of Parliament, I would never have believed you.
Success comes in many shapes and sizes. The most important thing for young people to understand is that failure shouldn’t be feared. It is what you learn from that failure which can make you successful. Learning from our mistakes is one of the most powerful lessons we can do.”
Headteacher Andrew Burns said, “Helping our young people realise their potential is all part of their learning journey. We teach Forge students that anything is possible and they should reach high and be the very best they can be. The friends and partners who attended our Raising Achievement Day last week make this ideology a reality. We are continually grateful to our local MP James Morris, Birmingham University, the NHS and our many other partners who support our work and care so much about the next generation.”