Aimen Fatima, a recent ex-apprentice now working full-time within GEIC, visited Whalley Range High School to promote apprenticeships as a possible route into STEM. The school celebrates diversity, working together with families and the local community to enhance their student’s education and welcomed her up to date experiences and real-life practical knowledge.

Aimen spoke to year 12 students about her journey from A-levels to a ‘Degree Apprenticeship’ providing a valuable insight into the Technical Apprenticeship Programme at the University of Manchester and the many opportunities it provides.

Afterwards, students were split into small groups enabling them to ask questions more comfortably.  Aimen said, “I found that some students had recently moved from Pakistan and were struggling with their English. I was able to communicate with them in their native language Urdu, which they found very helpful. The feedback on the day from Whalley Range staff was very positive, and I look forward to being involved in more outreach events like this, in the hope that STEM career routes become as easily accessible for girls as they are for others.”

The visit was very rewarding for both parties and Aimen’s apprenticeship background and inspiring career progression, provided an example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a couple of good decisions.

Post written by: Colin D. Baines
Date: 4th April 2022

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