A programme of classroom and practical activities helped pupils from Portlethen Academy understand the full range of career opportunities in this area of the automotive industry.
When Volvo Truck & Bus visited Portlethen Academy, the benefits for pupils were wide ranging.
A two-phase activity was developed for pupils who had expressed an interest in careers in the automotive industry.
An informative classroom careers session was complemented by a practical exercise and tour of a Volvo HGV truck, giving pupils a strong, well-rounded insight into the company's activities and early careers opportunities.
The classroom session introduced pupils to Volvo Truck & Bus and the entry-level vacancies that the company provides. They learned about the different elements of truck, bus and trailer sales, service and repair. Members of the Volvo Truck & Bus team also spoke about their early careers opportunities, including the apprenticeships and training programmes they offer for young people.
The group then went outside to the car park for a practical session, based round a Volvo HGV truck. Following a safety briefing, pupils were provided with a challenge card and asked to name specific truck parts. They were then allowed to climb in and explore the cab. Technical experts and a current apprentice from Volvo Truck & Bus shared information about the truck's features, controls and technology.
The combined activities gave pupils an immersive insight into career opportunities relating to:
The competitive nature of the challenge card activity added a fun element and encouraged interaction.
By providing them with an awareness and understanding of the automotive sector, Volvo Truck & Cars helped this pupil group to make informed choices about their future careers.
“This inspired me to get a better look into the truck mechanic world of work”
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