National Careers Week at Zest

National Careers Week provided the opportunity for the Zest team to make a tangible impact across local communities. With events spanning schools, colleges, and community job fairs, our team delivered interactive workshops and career sessions designed to inspire young minds and support individuals looking to re-enter the workforce. Here’s a look back at a week filled with learning, creativity, and opportunity.

Biodiversity and green careers

The week began at Rowlands Gill Primary School in Tyne and Wear, where Julie Holmes, Social Value Manager, led an engaging biodiversity talk for Year 1 and 2 pupils. Each child took part in a hands-on workshop, crafting their own bee to take home as a reminder of the importance of protecting nature.  

In the afternoon, Julie returned to the classroom to deliver a green careers workshop to Year 5 and 6 students. The session highlighted the growing opportunities and encouraged pupils to consider sustainable career paths.  

Empowering careers in Hackney

Zest's Social Value Assistant, Sarah Hack, headed to Hackney on Tuesday, where she attended a jobs fair specifically targeted at long-term unemployed individuals. There, she provided tailored career advice to 19 attendees and shared insights into opportunities at Zest.  

Building employability skills in Leeds

On Wednesday, Julie conducted an employability workshop for Year 12 students at Leeds Building College, designed to equip them with the skills and confidence needed to navigate a competitive job market. The session was both practical and forward-thinking; students completed a template cover letter and learned what employers are really looking for in candidates.  

Kelly Fulton Employability Officer said, “ A great afternoon as new relationships began with Leeds College of Building and Zest, working with our electrical groups to inform them of Zest and what they do, offering support and guidance to the students around CV writing and more about what employers are looking for in new recruits.”

Careers and Online Engagement

Julie returned to Leeds to deliver a talk at John Smeaton, reinforcing the importance of early career planning and the opportunities within green industries. Wrapping up the week, Julie delivered two online sessions to Ark Academy in Wembley and Bexley and Greenwich focusing on green careers.  

From creative biodiversity workshops to practical employability sessions, the Zest team demonstrated its commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities. By connecting with students, job seekers, and community members, we are proud to have contributed positively to local careers and sustainability efforts. These sessions reached a wide audience, engaging over 700 pupils and generating more than £3,000 in local impact.

"National Careers Week has been an incredible opportunity for me to engage with schools and inspire the next generation about the exciting career opportunities in sustainability. It’s been fantastic to see students eager to learn about the growing opportunities in green careers, from EV charging infrastructure to sustainability-focused roles. By fostering these connections, we’re helping to build a brighter, more sustainable future for all." Julie Holmes

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