The EY Foundation is a charitable company registered in England and Wales and Scotland with registered charity number 1157154 and SC045076. It is also a member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited
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This National Work Experience Week, we’re introducing Beyond Horizons, a new programme designed to reimagine the future of workplace experiences for young people in Bradford - and beyond.
Is work experience in need of a refresh?
Every young person deserves the chance to thrive in the workplace. Yet, in the current system, many young people lack access to meaningful experiences that build confidence and ambition. At the EY Foundation, we believe that work experience should be more than just a week in an office - it should be a springboard for discovering strengths, exploring different roles, and building aspirations for the future.
In response to feedback from young people, educators, parents, local authorities and employers, we are launching Beyond Horizons in Spring 2026. This new initiative will be piloted with Year 8 students in the Bradford district and has been developed in partnership with over 100 local stakeholders to ensure it meets the real needs of young people and employers in the area.
What is Beyond Horizons?
Beyond Horizons is more than a traditional placement. It’s a four-part journey to help young people to:
· Discover their strengths - Activities to help young people identify their natural strengths
· Explore local growth sectors - Insights into the careers and industries prominent in Bradford
· Experience the world of work - Simulated workplace challenges that bring learning to life
· Reflect and plan - Support to help students map out their next steps and future ambitions
The programme has been shaped by the voices of young people, educators, and employers in Bradford. By making it easier for businesses to get involved and for schools to deliver meaningful experiences, we aim to close the skills gap and unlock potential for both young people and employers alike.
Working at the intersection between education and employment is a crucial part of the EY Foundation’s mission, and we are excited about the opportunity to work with local schools and employers in Bradford to ensure young people are better connected to the opportunities around them. We know that supporting young people from low-income backgrounds to access meaningful employer encounters at an earlier stage in their education can be crucial to creating that spark of inspiration and influencing future employment prospects, and we are keen for this project to make a tangible difference to those who need it most.
Following the launch of updated statutory guidance for careers education in September 2025, schools across the country are also looking for ways to enhance their offering and align to a more modern approach to work experience.
At Oasis Academy Lister Park, we believe in opening doors to limitless opportunities for our students. Taking part in the Beyond Horizons project allows our young people to broaden their aspirations, gain invaluable experiences, and see what’s possible beyond the classroom. It’s about inspiring ambition and equipping them with the confidence to thrive in the future.
Join us - help shape the future of work experience!
As we look forward to the launch of Beyond Horizons, we’re inviting local businesses, volunteers, and individuals to join us in shaping the future of work experience. Whether you can offer your time, your workplace, or your expertise, your involvement can help open doors for the next generation.
Ready to make a difference? Register your interest as a volunteer or venue host for Beyond Horizons from April to June 2026. Together, we can ensure that every young person has the chance to dream and achieve - beyond horizons.
Contact: Dulcie Hayden, EY Foundation Bradford Programme Manager at dulcie.hayden@eyfoundation.ey.com.