VAUXHALL opened its doors to more than 260 school pupils - and convinced many to pursue a career in manufacturing.
The Vauxhall Motors plant in Ellesmere Port was supporting the Government’s See Inside Manufacturing initiative by welcoming the 14-18-year-olds to the plant over two days.
As many as 81% of those attending said they would consider a career in manufacturing.
Plant personnel manager Val Thomas said: “To see the plant full of young pupils keen to begin their future careers was great. We always welcome the opportunity to invite young people into the plant and to showcase all the career paths that manufacturing can offer.”
The aim of the day was to give pupils a taste of life in the automotive industry and see what careers Vauxhall has to offer.
Vauxhall Motors Ellesmere Port runs a successful undergraduate scheme, with increased numbers for 2011/2012.
The plant is in the process of recruiting school-leavers for apprenticeships starting in September 2012. Junior operator and graduate schemes are also available.
The event was organised by 20 undergraduates on a placement year at the plant.
Pupils were given a tour of the assembly unit and had the opportunity to take part in manufacturing-related games.
Undergraduates and apprentices were also on hand to offer pupils career advice, including tips for their future application and recruitment processes.
Body shop undergraduate John Merron said: “Our aim was to show pupils the many different aspects of Vauxhall in a fun and interactive way.
“It was great to see the pupils enjoying themselves away from the classroom and we were really able to relate to them when offering guidance and support for their future career choices.
“The day was a great success, hugely satisfying and has definitely encouraged us to set up or get involved with similar projects in the future.”
