Keele and Aspire working together to boost opportunities
A memorandum of understanding between Keele University and The Aspire Group was signed this week.
The two organisations have pledged to work together to generate social and community value, local labour, training and employment opportunities, including volunteering and work placements.
The partnership memorandum, which will also involve collaborating to maximise support for local businesses and boost the economy in the area, was signed by Keele’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Foskett, and Aspire’s Chief Executive, Sinéad Butters.
Professor Foskett said: “This partnership is an important step for both Keele and Aspire, which we believe will make a major impact in North Staffordshire.
“Keele is proud of its role in the region, and its regeneration, and there will be a determined effort from both our organisations to create opportunities
which will enrich the local community.”
Sinéad Butters said: “The engagement between our two organisations will maximise opportunities for students, young people and businesses in this area.
“We are passionate about increasing employment and skills levels for everyone and I’m proud to be working with Keele to achieve this.”
During the next two years Keele University and The Aspire Group have planned a host of activities designed to build on this partnership, including
· a structured programme of work placements, internships and research projects for Keele students at The Aspire Group
· a supplier event, organised to create local apprenticeship opportunities via PM Training
· setting up a jointly funded bursary scheme for disadvantaged undergraduates
The partnership will also look at joint procurement opportunities, volunteering activities and ways to extend the partnership to other organisations.