OA-Cambridge welcomed local employers, organisations and community partners into the academy on Thursday, 2 July for our Community to Classroom event, bringing together a wide range of organisations committed to supporting positive futures for young people.
The event highlighted our ongoing work to build meaningful partnerships that directly benefit pupils, helping to enhance their learning, raise aspirations and open pathways into further education, training and employment.
Visitors were able to find out more about our approach to supporting young people, as well as the role of Olive Academies Foundation, which works with partners to develop enrichment opportunities beyond the core curriculum. Discussions focused on how employers and organisations could support pupils through work experience placements, mentoring, workshops, presentations and apprenticeships, all designed to help students build confidence, develop key skills and prepare for their next steps.
Alongside the event, we also hosted our annual art exhibition, showcasing the creativity, talent and achievements of pupils. The exhibition provided a powerful reminder of the breadth of skills and expression across the academy and gave visitors the opportunity to celebrate students’ work first-hand.
The Community to Classroom event was delivered in partnership with Olive Academies Foundation, the charitable arm of Olive Academies, which supports the development of opportunities and enrichment activities that go beyond core provision. This work ensures pupils benefit from experiences that broaden their horizons and support both personal and academic development.
Among those attending were representatives from Cambridge United Foundation, Ely Art, Cambridge Junction as well as a range of other local employers and community organisations. Their involvement reflects the strength of the academy’s local partnerships and a shared commitment to creating real-world opportunities that support pupils as they prepare for life beyond the classroom. Thank you to all who attended.
"It was fantastic to welcome so many local organisations into the academy and to showcase the ambition and potential of our young people.
These partnerships are incredibly important. They help us to connect learning to the real world and give pupils experiences that build confidence, skills and aspirations. Whether through mentoring, work experience or workshops, every opportunity helps to broaden horizons and support positive next steps for our students."
Mark Kirby, Head of Academy