OREANDA-NEWS. SSE is backing an education initiative led by National Grid to help more young people consider a career in the utilities industries.

Careers Lab aims to bridge the gap between schools and the world of work by getting employees from businesses of all sizes into the classrooms to deliver inspiring careers lessons side by side with teachers, helping young people think more widely about the their future working life.

Following a successful pilot programme with the likes of Capgemini, Costain, HS2 and Whitbread the Careers Lab will now be rolled out to around 600 schools through Business in the Community 'Business Class' programme involving 15,000 business volunteers.

SSE's Head of Learning and Development, Ryan Sadler said: “SSE is already very active in the local community and works closely with schools, colleges and universities to help promote the many opportunities available at SSE. However an industry-wide programme such as the Careers Lab is sure to raise even more awareness of the different options available that many young people may not have previously known about or even considered.

“We're delighted to be part of this new initiative and look forward to inspiring the workforce of tomorrow.”

National Grid CEO Steve Holliday added: “With around half of those employed in utilities companies due to retire in the next 10 years there's a real acknowledgement in the sector that we need to be more proactive in showing young people the fantastic range of interesting and well paid jobs we can offer them. And I'm delighted that SSE amongst others, have pledged their support.”

SSE employs over 19,000 people right across the UK and Ireland, has recruited around 100 apprentices every year since 2007 and offers a number of graduate opportunities annually.