Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, has delivered its first UK Work Insights Programme to school and college students from Birmingham and the surrounding areas. Aon’s Colmore Gate office in Colmore Street welcomed 29 students from a diverse range of socio-economic backgrounds onto the new programme, which aims to enhance career opportunities and social mobility.
The week-long programme provided virtual and in-person training – all delivered by Aon colleagues - to year-12 students (aged 16 to 17) from Birmingham and the surrounding areas, comprising interactive learning sessions, speakers, panels, group projects, skills sessions, and networking.
Chris Barley, head of office, Aon Birmingham said: “We very much enjoyed hosting our first cohort of students on the Work Insights Programme at the Birmingham office. All 29 were enthusiastic and engaged with the activities and worked hard during their time with us; they did themselves and their schools proud.
“I want to thank the colleagues who worked with the students to share their knowledge and experience, and who supported development of new skills through the workshops and presentations. The programme aims to provide young people with a greater understanding of the professional services sector, introduce them to the opportunities available, and help give them greater confidence when making their future career choices.
“This forms part of Aon’ commitment to greater equity and inclusion across the business and the wider community, and we are very proud to be part of delivering this programme here in the Midlands.” Schools taking part in this inaugural programme included Alcester Grammar School, Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College, Queen Mary’s Grammar School, St Edmund Campion Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre, Bishop Challoner Catholic College, Swanshurst School, University of Birmingham School and Birmingham North Academy.
Aon employs around 400 staff in its Birmingham office, providing clients, from SMEs to large corporates, with commercial risk solutions, health solutions, reinsurance solutions and wealth solutions. The next programme will be held in October, over the half-term break.
