Ascent College students host business breakfast for employers

Students from Ascent Autism Specialist College in Newton-le-Willows recently hosted a business breakfast, bringing together students and employers for a valuable networking opportunity.

Held at the college’s Cosy Corner Café, the event welcomed current work experience employers, community partners, and other organisations. 

Developed collaboratively by staff and students at Ascent College, the business breakfast provided students with the chance to have meaningful interactions with employer partners and explore potential work placement opportunities.

A total of 10 students, all part of the college’s experience careers group, worked alongside staff to create and organise the event from start to finish.

During the event, each student delivered a presentation to attendees, highlighting their work experience, the skills they have developed, and how these experiences have influenced their career aspirations.

Five students spoke about their work placements. Student, Yanick, shared his work experience journey at Haydock Park Jockey Club. 

Meanwhile, fellow student Alicia spoke about her work experience at Little Foxes Nursery. 

Tara Thomas, employment engagement officer at Ascent College, commented: “As part of our careers strategy, we are working with employers to break down the barriers to employment for our young people.

“These events provide a safe environment for our students to engage meaningfully with employers, build confidence, and gain a deeper understanding of the skills that employers are seeking.”

The college is on a mission to challenge misconceptions about autism in the workplace and educate employers on the benefits of diversifying their workplace. 

The business breakfast forms part of a broader strategy to engage employers and support them in gaining the confidence to successfully work with autistic young people.

Head of adult services at Ascent College, Julliet Doherty, shared: “We are committed to breaking down barriers and challenging the misconceptions around autism in the workplace. 

“Through our employer partnerships, we have delivered educational workshops to businesses in the local area and beyond, highlighting how diversifying their workforce can enhance productivity, boost innovation, and improve problem-solving.”

Julliet added: “These events allow our students to have impactful and meaningful conversations with employers while deepening their understanding of the skills required in different sectors. We are incredibly proud of how our students conducted themselves; they demonstrated confidence and professionalism.”