Work programme gives Glasgow students first steps on career ladder – Scottish Business News

AON plc, a leading global professional services firm, has welcomed 16 school students from Glasgow and the surrounding area to its 2024 Work Insights Programme, which aims to enhance career pathways and social mobility.

Aon’s work experience programme provides students aged 16-17 and from lower socio-economic backgrounds with the opportunity to experience first-hand the world of finance and professional services.

The students spent time in the York St office where Aon colleagues delivered the programme which included a real workplace challenge, speed networking where they met with colleagues across a variety of roles, panel discussions around career pathways, and a CV and interview skills workshop.

Schools participating in the initiative included Woodfarm High School, St Ninian’s High School, Lourdes Secondary School, Jordanhill School, Eastwood High School, Holyrood Secondary School, Wallace High School, Hillhead High School, and Our Lady’s High School.

Last year Aon delivered its inaugural Work Insights programme to 600 students across the UK including 12 in Glasgow. On completion of the programme, 82 per cent of students surveyed confirmed that they were likely to consider a career in finance and professional services.

Ross Mackay, head of office, Aon Glasgow, said: 

“It has never been more important to provide young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds with the opportunity to gain insight into the world of work, particularly the financial and professional services sector, through quality work experience. 

“Aon is committed to increasing representation of those from lower socio-economic backgrounds across the business. The Work Insights Programme enables young people to develop employability skills, learn more about different career opportunities, and supports the transition from education to employment. 

“I want to thank colleagues from Aon Glasgow who volunteered their time to deliver the programme – without them it wouldn’t be possible. The students were a credit to the schools they represent and enthusiastically engaged in all activities. I hope they have a greater understanding of our industry and that the experience supports their future careers.”

Aon employs more than 250 staff across Scotland, providing clients, from SMEs to large corporates, with commercial risk, health, reinsurance and wealth solutions. As part of the programme, Aon partnered with state-funded schools in Glasgow to reach pupils who would benefit most – adopting a selection process based on diversity statistics, such as areas with a high percentage of free school meals.

For further information about the UK Work Insights Programme and to participate please visit https://www.aon.com/careers/early-careers/uk/workinsight