In a fun-filled event that took place in the Fusion building at Talbot Campus on 17 May, BU students were celebrated for gaining their Graduate Skills+ Award at the Graduate Skills Programme Awards 2023.
Endorsed by and co-delivered with employers like IBM, LUSH, Dorset Mind and University Hospitals Dorset, the Graduate Skills Programme is an opportunity for students to develop essential skills that help prepare them for the world of work after they graduate. To complete the award, students attended employer-led skills masterclasses and took part in industry visits and extra-curricular activities.
The evening of celebration began with Jenna Darlow, who runs the BU Graduate Skills Programme, and Alex Jacobs, Head of Careers and Employability, welcoming attendees and talking about the importance of students being prepared when they enter the labour market.
Alex said “Today a degree doesn’t always make you stand out from your competitors, so students need to take steps to develop themselves outside of their academic studies. Learning about soft, transferable skills and forming relationships with employers will help them to succeed in their careers going forward.”
BU Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Vinney took to the stage to congratulate students for taking the opportunity while attending university to proactively develop themselves alongside their studies. He was then followed by keynote speaker Dr Jeff Mostyn, AFC Bournemouth Club Ambassador and Former Chairman. AFC Bournemouth were one of the local employers involved in the Graduate Skills Programme, where students were invited to attend masterclasses to learn more about the working culture at a Premier League football club.
Other guests included Claire Main, Economic Development Officer from BCP Council who held a masterclass for the students. When asked about the benefits of students engaging in the programme, Claire said: "The Graduate Skills Programme is fantastic, it’s a bridge between the university and industry and I genuinely believe it gives students a real edge on graduation.”
Would you like to get involved? The Graduate Skills Programme is still open to all students and runs throughout the year, so you can sign up at any time! To find out more and how to get involved visit: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/students/things-do/graduate-skills-programme.
