Social Enterprise: Adding Value to the Student CVByKaren Burrows and Nick Wragg

Aims and ObjectivesThis session aims to show how a

social enterprise initiative can help students differentiate their offering to the workplace and in doing so develop skills that promote elegant self-management.

The project…An experiential project of creating an

enterprise committee which enhances the learning experience, teaches students how to take theory and apply it in real situations, and builds their confidence.

Balance between academia and employability - work and life - not just teaching students business theory or employability skills but also practical self management.

In our opinion…

A great lecturer:EncouragesGuidesPasses on knowledgeDevelops skills –

◦writing; research; presenting; teambuilding; communicating; interpersonal skills (basic customer care)

Confidence and a ‘can do’ attitude.

Whether we like it or not…..

WE MAKE AN IMPRESSION

Key Factors Higher Education white paper

(2010)

Changes in tuition fees

Key Information Sets (KIS) Data

Employer demands

K.I.SStudent satisfaction Course information Employment and salary data Accommodation costs Financial information, such as

fees Students' union information.

EmployabilityEconomic Downturn

Lack of graduate opportunities

Lots of theory learnt but lack of practice

So … How should students differentiate their offering to the work place?

The ProjectCreate a social enterpriseCreate an enterprise committee of

undergraduatesThe committee would undertake several

events or activities throughout the academic year to gather valuable experience and transferable employability skills

The group would have to work on their own initiative and as part of a team

The project would be extra to the curricula, ie voluntary.

Reasons for the projectThey would be able to focus on

skills they couldn’t learn from their own jobs and work experience in a safe environment

Focus is on the process and not the outcome

The students would have valuable skills they could use on their Curriculum Vitaes (CV’s) and in interviews

Events to dateChristmas Fundraising Day –

which partly funded…

Twenty Four Hour Timed Business Activity

Run VT!

The OutcomesStudents took ownershipExamples of students using the project in

their studies (careers portfolio)Enhance time management skills; working

with others; gaining of social confidenceFostering business linksEnabling lecturers to participate (CPD)Raises the University Centre ProfileFosters community linksCreated induction/seminar activities for

use 2012/13

The Outcomes - InternationalisationThe project included some of our

Chinese learners.No experience of this kind of

socialisation previously.This enriches their learning

journey and offers confidence in language skills and socialising.

What’s NextBuying and Selling Activity

World of work week - Student-led Careers Fair

Continuity for future years

Alumni – Student Union involvement

Any Questions?