On Tuesday 15th July, the Chamber’s skills team joined Greater Peterborough UTC’s Business Partner Day, an event that perfectly exemplified their mission to bridge education and industry. With over 80 attendees representing 30+ businesses, the day highlighted how employer engagement is shaping the skills and careers of young people.
Curriculum-Linked Learning with Real Impact
GPUTC’s unique approach integrates real-world challenges directly into the curriculum, with year 12 and 13 students spending significant time each week on employer-linked projects, deepening their industry engagement.
Principle Lee Mawby, gave an initial welcome.
The Field Gun Crew: Old Traditions, New Skills
We first heard from the junior Field Gun Crew, whose challenge is traditionally linked to British military heritage dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Students train intensively in a team-based event involving running, dismantling, and reassembling equipment under pressure. The teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and resilience they develop are vital transferable skills. Their teacher spoke of how much they’d grown, both as individuals and as a unit, and said he was incredibly proud of what they’d achieved.
The Field Gun Crew giving their presentation.
Women in Engineering: Representation Matters
This was followed by two Year 8 girls who spoke about their potentially life-changing visit to Howden, A Chart Industries Company for Women in Engineering. The students reflected on how the experience, including mentoring and talks, boosted their confidence and understanding of engineering pathways.
Two Year 8’s spoke about their visit to Howden, A Chart Industries Company
T-Levels in Action: Howden Turbo UK
Next up, we heard from Howden Turbo UK and how it supports GPUTC students through a two-year T-Level programme (equivalent to three A-levels), offering meaningful vocational experience co-designed with educators.
Andrew Otoo from Howden explained the value of the partnership:
“We want the best talent for our business, and these students bring fresh ideas and a new perspective. It’s valuable because they often think differently than those who’ve been in the industry for years. They challenge assumptions and spark innovation. At the same time, we’re giving them a strong foundation by grounding their creativity in real-world principles and practice. They’re learning cutting-edge skills that didn’t even exist a decade ago, and that’s exciting for everyone involved.”
Andrew Otoo from Howden, explaining the value of T-Levels for businesses.
Jake Wilson and Dylan De Oliveira, current T-Level students from GPUTC, shared their experience:
“We’ve been welcomed as part of the team, not just treated like work experience kids,” said Jake.
“We’re working on real projects that actually help the business. It’s been fun and inspiring to collaborate with experts,” added Dylan.
Dylan continued, “Even though we’re new, we’ve been trusted with meaningful tasks. The best part is learning from professionals and seeing our work have an impact.”
Jake agreed, “It’s been eye-opening. I now understand how the design side of engineering fits into the bigger picture and how we can contribute.”
Howden’s goal? To embed future talent, nurture leadership internally, and help close the skills gap.
Jake Wilson and Dylan De Oliveira, current T-Level students from GPUTC
AI: Challenges and Opportunities
A major theme throughout the day was AI’s role in education and employment. Pete Vassey discussed how AI can support critical thinking but warned about emerging skill gaps, emphasising that asking the right questions is more important than ever.
Al Kingsley MBE demonstrated how generative AI tools can save time, enhance creativity, and allow educators to focus on human-centred skills like empathy and communication. His live demo of creating a podcast using AI tools left attendees considering how best to balance technology with human connection.
Industry Insight: Ansys Software
Alfred Oti from Ansys highlighted how simulation and synthetic data technologies are transforming aerospace, automotive, and other sectors. The session showcased advanced tools including real-time 3D design simulation and cloud computing, underscoring the need for adaptable, tech-savvy talent.
Alfred Oti from Ansys.
We left the event energised by the clear commitment from employers and educators to invest in real-world learning and future talent. These collaborations make a tangible difference, and we’re proud to support them through our Skills work.
Nick Frank, LSIP Manager attended the event. Pictured here alongside Sonia Rogers, Careers Coordinator.