Businesses invited to afternoon tea in Bournemouth served by students from Linwood School

The South West Regional Assessment Centre (SWRAC) in Association with Linwood School is inviting local businesses and organisations to a very special afternoon tea on Friday 13 October, served by students with special educational needs.

Supported by Bournemouth Borough Council, Poole Borough Council, Job Centre Plus and the Skills Funding Agency, the event at Bournemouth’s Marsham Court Hotel aims to show local businesses how providing work experience opportunities to people with special educational needs really can work for them – and change the lives of young people.

Adrian Gunner, principal at SWRAC, specialists in providing occupational training and apprenticeships to a wide range of individuals and organisations, said: “We constantly meet many people who are extremely enthusiastic, willing and able, reliable and trustworthy who have great personalities and who have the skills to undertake many roles.

“They have the potential to make wonderful employees but often they need help gaining experience first. That’s what our afternoon tea is about – businesses will hear first-hand how easy it is to help and that they really do have the power to make a difference.”

Karen Taylor from Linwood School said “The #SayYestoSEN campaign has already attracted considerable, positive national and local attention. Employers really do benefit from a motivated staff member, whilst making a real contribution to society.

“Representatives from Job Centre Plus and the Skills Funding Agency will be on hand to answer any questions about help and support available to those businesses who go on to provide work experience and/ or employment. It’s a great opportunity to help people with special educational needs gain skills and confidence.”