Olga Pollock (Kinecx Energy), Corey (Rosstulla Special School), Ruth Harper (Workplus), Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, Lucas & Dannell (Rosstulla Special School) are pictured on the first day of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Work Experience programme, run in partnership with Workplus. Over 250 work experience opportunities have been created for local pupils, involving both mainstream and SEN schools in the Borough.
Over 250 opportunities have been created for local pupils as part of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Work Experience project.
The project, which is run in partnership with Workplus, offers work experience opportunities to both mainstream and SEN schools in the Borough.
This week the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, visited the first day of work experience for some pupils from Rosstulla School, who enjoyed a placement at Kinecx Energy in Antrim. The Mayor also visited pupils at The Bridge and Mivan.
Speaking about the project, the Mayor said, “Through this initiative, local pupils are being given meaningful opportunities to engage directly with employers. This programme is about opening doors and making connections. I’m grateful to the employers across the sectors for taking part in this unique project. By welcoming pupils into their organisations, they are demonstrating leadership, inclusivity and a real commitment to developing local talent.”
Ruth Harper, Project Manager at Workplus, said, “It’s wonderful to see the pupils enjoy getting hands-on experience with employers across the sectors. At the heart of this project is collaboration, connection and inclusivity, and we are pleased that local employers have created over 250 work experience opportunities for young people. It’s important that pupils get exposure to these kinds of opportunities as we know from previous years that this project has provided career inspiration and valuable insights.”
Rosstulla pupil, Corey, said, “I’m looking forward to my work experience and who knows, maybe it will mean I’ll end up working at Kinecx Energy in the future!”
Olga Pollock from Kinecx Energy said, “This is such a worthwhile project, and we’re pleased to be able to offer work experience opportunities to both mainstream and special schools. For us, it’s a great way to link with schools and let young people see what a career in the energy sector looks like, as well as the breadth of exciting opportunities that exist within our company.”
Through the Workplus platform, employers are profiled to make connections easier and to showcase the diverse range of companies and work experience opportunities available.
SEN schools are participating in bespoke insight days and tailored placements with local employers, helping ensure that every young person can access meaningful and inclusive career experiences.
The Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Work Experience project continues until June 2026.
