Three students from George Salter Academy, part of Ormiston Academies Trust, visited PLMR Group, one of the country’s leading communications firms, for three days of culturally enriching work experience.

Kashvi, Jake and Larissa are studying for their A Levels at the academy in West Bromwich.

They worked across the PR and public affairs teams, drafting press releases, creating in-depth briefings on politicians, and creating stakeholder maps.

The students also took part in a wide range of cultural experiences outside of the office as part of a bespoke itinerary. This included attending a lecture at UCL, seeing the Magna Carta at The British Library, and being given a tour of Parliament. This was a particularly exciting moment for Kashvi, who is an aspiring MP and regularly canvases for the Labour Party.

Throughout the experience, the students were offered a snapshot of the working world, with the opportunity to hear from PLMR’s expert consultants about the various pathways they can undertake after university and to enter a career in communications.

The purpose of the programme, devised and delivered by PLMR, is to provide young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with the skills and experiences to progress in the future, including in university application forms. The programme has a focus on offering high-quality work experience and cultural opportunities they may not otherwise have access to. It is part of PLMR’s wider philanthropic efforts, which have seen the business donate 5% of net profits to causes at home and abroad ever since it was founded in 2006.

Kashvi, Year 13 student at George Salter Academy, said: 

“I really enjoyed my time at PLMR. The staff have been so polite and welcoming. This experience has taught me a lot from improving my research skills to expanding my knowledge of public affairs and relations. If I had the opportunity I would love to come and continue working with the team. Thank you PLMR.”

 

Adrian Price, Principal at George Salter Academy, said: 

“Thank you so much for having George Salter Academy work experience youngsters with you. This is absolutely the sort of thing that changes lives.”

 

Ollie Lane, Managing Director at PLMR Group, said:

“It was great to have Kashvi, Jake and Larissa with us. PLMR is proud to offer opportunities which help give young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the best chance to succeed at school and beyond.”