CUMBRIA’S Dream Placement programme, now in its tenth year, is launching this month.

The leadership and business experience programme will build on the amazing success of last year which saw a record number of placements for young people aged 16-18 across the county.

Dream Placement 2023, organised by the Centre for Leadership Performance, gives young people the chance to learn about careers and business and gain life-changing opportunities.

CforLP is now working to bring more businesses on board alongside the campaign in schools and colleges to encourage young people to take part.

CforLP Executive Director Sarah Glass said: “Cumbria is facing a huge challenge with our brightest young people leaving the county for university or city life, and others challenged by their educational attainment or personal circumstances. Many young people don’t realise the opportunities available to them right here, but Dream Placement gives them greater awareness and understanding of Cumbrian businesses and the careers they offer.

“All of our partners and collaborators on the programme agree that it is vital to engage with and listen to young people of all abilities who may be unsure about their futures or rethinking their career ideas. They are the leaders and workforce of tomorrow and our most important resource.”

There will be extensive on-line contact and live interaction to ensure all the young people applying for the programme gain maximum benefit from taking part, in terms of personal development and gaining life skills.

The interviews for placements will mainly take place face-to-face in December but with a virtual option available based on the success of last year’s hybrid selection event.

Companies offering Dream Placements range from major players in Cumbria’s nuclear sector to small and medium-size specialist companies and other organisations.

Every applicant gets one-to-one guidance as part of the process and CforLP will provide additional support if required, with the aim of giving every 16 to 18-year-old applicant the knowledge to succeed and the confidence that will build their future character.

Networking and connecting people is a vital part of CforLP’s work and an integral component within Dream Placement.

Students will benefit from meeting other young people and business leaders with whom they can share experiences and aspirations and continue networking through Cumbria Future Leaders set up by CfLP to connect and broker links with employers and youth groups for dialogue and discussions.

Young people and businesses wishing to take part in the programme should visit www.dreamplacement.org.uk