Briefly describe the goal that led your organisation to EBP South.
Becoming concerned by the ever-lowering commitment to learning languages to a higher level in UK schools, I wanted to see if I could help students see a reason for learning a language. Being part of the Employer Engagement Project (EEP) enabled me to inspire students directly in the classroom and highlight the career benefits.
Why did you choose to work with EBP South?
I believe it was a long time ago 8/9 years ago at a Shaping Portsmouth event that I came across EBP South and decided to see how I could help.
What actions/activities have taken place with EBP South to reach your goal?
Initially this was mentoring students in secondary schools and followed by giving subject talks for GCSE subjects, which were added at a later point.
“Some of the mentees I worked with were very proud to tell me all about their improved grades in their school subjects. A direct result of their weekly chats with me discussing where things were going well in school, but also some of the ways things were not going so well, why that may be and what could be done to address it.”
What has been the most valuable aspect of working with EBP South, and why?
The chance to possibly inspire one or two budding linguists to continue their journey in learning a language. Something I did many years ago and have never regretted. Being able to talk to people in their own language opens so many doors to knowing more people better and learning about and experiencing so many things the rest of the people never get to experience in such a meaningful way.
Would you recommend that others work with us, and if so, why?
Yes.
I think a bigger organisation than AJ Starr Translations certainly would find many different ways of engaging with EBP South. My business is niche & can find useful ways to engage with language students.
“My favourite part of the experience is the mentoring in a school.”
What call to action would you give to other organisations considering working with EBP South?
It certainly provides an opportunity to reach out to the upcoming future colleagues a company could find in the locality. Such things are no doubt vital to large organisations as they plan for the future. It could also plant seeds in young minds as to where they could aspire to be in future years.
