Reflecting on last week’s NEAT Business Breakfast – 22nd November 2024

Last Friday, 22nd November, we were proud to host the NEAT Business Breakfast at Benfield School. Led by our CEO, Debi Bailey, and Careers Strategic Lead, Helen Symonds-Taylor, the morning brought together local employers, community representatives, and educators—all united by a shared goal: helping our young people thrive.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. Your input was invaluable as we discussed the skills our students already bring to the table and those they need to develop to succeed in the workplace.

A special mention must go to our incredible young leaders and Y10 pupils from Benfield School. They were such a credit to themselves, Benfield School and the Trust, confidently engaging with visitors, asking thoughtful questions, and sharing their own aspirations. It was inspiring to see them network with employers and gain first-hand insights into the world of work.

We also reflected on the “green shoots” of community work already happening across NEAT. While we’re proud of these early successes, there’s so much more we want to achieve. Friday’s Business Breakfast was a chance to share these ambitions and encourage more organisations to partner with us to grow this vital work.

The response to our call for collaboration has been incredible. Many of you have already stepped forward, wanting to support our mission of improving opportunities for our students, their families, and the wider community. Together, we can help break down barriers and create brighter futures for everyone.

If you or your organisation would like to be part of this, please get in touch. Whether it’s sharing your expertise, working on joint projects, or offering mentorship opportunities, every partnership makes a difference. Email us at digital@neat.org.uk to find out more.

– NEAT Community Social Justice Meeting: Join us on 18th December 2024, 4:00–5:00 PM. More details will follow soon.

– Next Business Breakfast: Save the date for 7th March 2025. Invitations will be shared in January.

Friday’s event reminded us of the power of coming together. In a time when education faces so many challenges, it was a chance to celebrate what we’re doing right. From the dedication of our staff to the bright potential of our pupils, the morning was a real moment of pride for everyone involved.

Thank you to everyone who helped make it such a success. This is just the beginning—we’re excited about what’s ahead as we work with you to create real opportunities for our students and communities.