Working Options in Education is an employability and life skills charity that has been helping young people to aim high and fulfil their potential since 2010.

I'm Roxie Ford, proudly born and raised in Wales, and I’m the new (and first) dedicated Programme Manager: Wales for Working Options in Education. 

We’re the charity empowering 14-19-year-olds to know their options and find their career paths. Collaborating with businesses and volunteers, we offer opportunities helping to shape the future careers of young people.

How are we empowering young people? 

My team – Ffion, Aimee and I – are rapidly expanding the charity's work within all regions across Wales, and we aim to be working with every young person within the next 5 years. 

All through our volunteer-led talks, which let students hear personal career stories, directly from professionals in industries they might not otherwise consider, transforming their future pathways. While also upskilling them in networking, interviewing, teamwork, problem-solving and presentation skills. The volunteers tell us they get a huge amount from it as well. 

Here’s some feedback from a student at Cardiff and Vale College:

“They’ve inspired me to just aim up high in the world.”

Investing in the future

This year we aim to reach 70,000+ young people across England and Wales, thanks to the invaluable support of businesses who are investing in local career development and building a skilled workforce, benefiting our community and economy.

“These experiences are not every day for our students!”

Impact that matters

Teachers and students tell us that our programmes give them increased confidence (100%), enhanced skills (100%), and clearer career pathways (97%).

“1000% I have a more positive outlook on life after sixth form.”

The impact we have on young people is totally dependent on our volunteers – volunteer as and when you are available (no minimum interaction required!)

If you would like to find out more about how you can make a difference, please visit our website for more information or contact me directly: [email protected] 

Click here to visit the Working Options website