There are so many ways to describe the word Community. At School of Thought we believe that businesses can make a difference in a number of ways in their own communities. It’s all about connection, collaboration and co-operation.
For some communities it is about belonging, growing up and living together and supporting each other in whatever way you feel you can.
You will probably do some of these things already in your own community, maybe this is giving discounts to people locally, or just providing a service in an area where there is demand but not enough businesses doing it, or volunteering, sponsoring someone or something, employing people from the local area, buying local products, whatever you decide it will make a difference.
All these great things help to build Unity, and in some cases reducing carbon footprint and really giving something back.
If the company, you work in gives volunteering time then why not volunteer with School of Thought?
Not only will you feel great about what you are doing, you will engage with young people in local schools and colleges, share your journey, promote opportunities within automotive and more importantly in your business. Finding someone locally is the best option, it reduces travel time and cost for the individual and often stress associated for a young person getting to work.
You can see how many connections we have made with young people through attending events and talking to them about Automotive, and our aim is to reach over 2 million in 2025.
So, how can volunteering help you?
• It can give you a sense of purpose and belonging
• Helps you build self- esteem and confidence by achieving new things and new friends
• Gives you skills such as presenting to an audience, great things to put on your CV or pursue outside work
• Gets you out of your comfort zone and it can even be fun
• Improves your mental health and wellbeing, keeping you active and stimulated
• Makes you feel you have made a difference in supporting a school, your business and young people.
You may even start to mentor young people and prepare them for the world of work. Whatever your reasons for wanting to help we would love to have you on board.
What sort of things would I get involved with?
There are so many activities, here are just some of the things you can be asked to do:
– Speed networking
– Presentations
– Q&A sessions
– Mock interviews
– CV writing
– Practical workshops
– Judging competitions
Some of these events you won’t need to prepare for, just turn up and be you. If you do need to do a presentation, we can provide you with generic slides and videos, and all you need to do is add your personal touch.
School of Thought will help you prepare, talk through any concerns you may have and even support you wherever possible. Once you have done one, you will want to do more, particularly when you see the smiles on young people’s faces.
What do I need to know?
You will need to know about any opportunities within your company, whether that’s work experience, traineeships, or apprenticeships. You may be asked about entry levels, education requirements and pay, so be prepared and have this information to hand. If you do have opportunities then let them know how to apply, a QR code always works well. You are likely to get asked to return for other age groups or events, but always ask if there is anything else that you can help with.
Don’t worry if young people don’t engage straight away, often they are nervous, they may even have had the event sprung on them or have neurodivergence or other health challenges that may make them appear socially awkward. Keep talking to them and be prepared to throw in some questions like “What’s your favourite car” or “Who is your favourite racing car driver”, just to break down those initial barriers.
If you get a day of volunteering a year through work, that’s all we ask for, but we would also love you to do as many events as you can. We partner with STEM to make this happen, you will need a DBS check which will be provided free of charge, you will receive an induction, have your own dashboard, regular newsletters from STEM and the support from us and fellow ambassadors. We are a dedicated community, aimed at spreading the message about how amazing Automotive is, and making sure that the next generation have a secure and sustainable future with us.
Our network is growing why not get in touch to find out more by visiting our website www.schoolofthoughtautomotive.co.uk or emailing dave@ready4work.uk or julie@ready4work.uk
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