Employer Encounter Case Studies
Career Fair
Over 700 students from Years 8 to 13 recently “dived into a world of opportunities” at the Academy’s successful Careers Fair. The event proved to be a pivotal day, described as being “packed with inspiration, advice, and real-world connections” designed to help shape student journeys. The Academy welcomed over 35 guest professionals, providing an exceptional breadth of expertise for the visiting students as they represented a wide variety of pathways, ranging from major organisations to colleges and higher education institutions.
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Partnership with Aston Villa Football Club
AVFC Intervention sessions are a regular feature of each week at Grace Academy! The atmosphere at Grace Academy has been electric as students dive headfirst into an inspiring 10-week programme delivered in partnership with Aston Villa Football club.
From tackling the power of social media to mastering the art of budgeting and understanding income, students have shown exceptional enthusiasm and engagement in every session. This unique initiative is already making waves—boosting confidence, sharpening life skills, and encouraging students to think big about their futures.
Grace Academy students have also proudly represented both Aston Villa FC and the Academy as official flag bearers ahead of a high-stakes European League clash—broadcast live across the continent!
Standing tall on the pitch before kick-off, our students showed incredible maturity, pride, and teamwork as they took centre stage at Villa Park. After their duties were complete, they soaked up the unforgettable matchday atmosphere from the stands—cheering on the team alongside thousands of fans.
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Student Work Experience
Year 12 students at our academy swapped classrooms for real-world workplaces during their two-week work experience placements — and the results were nothing short of inspiring. From lending a helping hand in busy infant and primary schools to supporting frontline staff in GP surgeries, our students embraced the challenge of stepping into adult professional environments. The placements weren’t just a taste of the working world — they became a platform for students to demonstrate maturity, adaptability, and genuine enthusiasm.
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Princess Diana workshopYear 12 students have completed the 12-week mentoring programme where they have participated in a range of different workshops for businesses, skills and experiences to help prepare them for future careers or university.
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Problem Solving WorkshopYear 10 students recently took part in a hands-on problem-solving workshop aimed at enhancing their critical and creative thinking, teamwork, resilience and communication abilities—skills that are increasingly essential in today’s fast-changing world. The workshop, which was facilitated by industry professionals with backgrounds in career development, business, and enterprise, provided a dynamic learning experience that bridged classroom knowledge with real-world application. |
National Careers Week
The Academy celebrated National Careers Week, where the whole week was dedicated to inspiring students to think ahead and consider their career journey. Throughout the week students took part in informative tutor time activities which aimed to raise awareness of key skills needed within the world of work. Students also attended careers assemblies with Birmingham City University and the NEC group who signposted some different career pathways that students may never have considered. The week has been beneficial to students as they have shown an interest in these opportunities which will have a crucial impact on their future and the pathways they can take to meet their goals.