The Discovery Centre - AstraZeneca | 26 November 2024
High Growth Areas: Fulfilling the Opportunities for Young People
Welcome talk from Anne Bailey
Form the Future welcomed over 150 guests to its 2024 Annual Conference with an inspiring speech by CEO and Co-founder Anne Bailey. She highlighted the organisation’s mission, its growing impact, and the milestone of engaging over 32,000 students in 2022/23. Anne thanked partners for their support since 2015 and announced the exciting 10-Year Anniversary Campaign in 2025 - a celebration of a decade of impact and collaboration!
Introduction to the Discovery Centre from Lisa King
Lisa King, Director of UK STEM & Community Engagement at AstraZeneca, welcomed attendees to The Discovery Centre (DISC), a cutting-edge global R&D hub at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. This innovative facility, home to over 2,300 scientists, fosters collaboration, openness, and sustainability. Delegates were invited to join an exclusive tour of the DISC, offering them the opportunity to witness innovation firsthand.
Greeting from Shaun Grady
Shaun Grady, Chair of AstraZeneca UK, spoke about the company ’ s role in the life sciences ecosystem and the importance of inspiring young people. He praised Form the Future’s decade of impact and its success in uniting employers, educators, public sector bodies and policymakers to inspire the next generation. Shaun encouraged everyone to continue working together for a brighter future.
Our expert panel discussed environments that foster growth and create opportunities for everyone.
This first panel was hosted by Steve Thompson from Form the Future and included Professor Ross Renton from ARU Peterborough, Dr Kathryn Chapman from Innovate Cambridge, Jane Hutchins from Cambridge Science Park, Owen Garling from Bennett Institute for Public Policy, and Sue Foxley from Bidwells.
The panel discussed Cambridge's unique position as a high-growth region and how to create inclusive opportunities. Professor Ross Renton stressed that growth must “improve the standard of living for all,” while Jane Hutchins highlighted the pressure on infrastructure, calling for sustainable development, a view shared by Owen Garling. Dr. Kathryn Chapman emphasised the need for diverse skills beyond science, and Sue Foxley noted the region’s reliance on knowledge-intensive jobs, urging greater economic diversity.
Future workplaces should inspire creativity and collaboration, according to Jane, who said they must be “better than home.” Professor Renton pointed to sustainable designs like ARU Peterborough’s nature-focused buildings, while accessibility and transport were identified as key challenges by Dr. Chapman and Sue Foxley.
To connect young people, the panel urged more inclusive hiring practices, degree apprenticeships, and outreach to raise awareness of roles like lab technicians. “We need parity between vocational and academic pathways,” Ross noted. Supporting neurodiverse employees and promoting innovation as a career path were also highlighted.
Soft skills such as confidence, communication, and adaptability are essential. As Jane concluded, “Growth must bring the local population with us, ” ensuring Cambridge’s success benefits all.
How do we make sure young people can benefit from opportunities on their doorstep?
This panel was hosted by Pri Pinnaduwa, HR Director from Artios, and included Dr Nikos Savvas DL from Eastern Education Group, Lynn Walters from Pure Executive, Olu Orugboh from Cambridge Wireless and Black Talent & Leadership in STEM, and Christina Dumitriu Jackson from AstraZeneca.
The panel focused on fostering local talent, promoting inclusivity, and equipping young people for the future. Nikos emphasized the need for businesses to work with local schools and colleges rather than relying on imported talent. He also called for better integration of vocational education, suggesting it could replace some traditional GCSEs.
Olu stressed that retaining diverse talent requires true inclusivity, addressing factors like community, transport, and family life. “It’s not just about today’s skills,” she said, urging companies to focus on long-term development and mobility.
Christina highlighted the value of soft skills like proactivity, arguing that community involvement often outshines traditional internships. She proposed a digital campaign to showcase diverse career paths and emphasised the importance of equity over equality.
Lynn called for greater promotion of apprenticeships alongside university, urging young people to embrace self-responsibility. Nikos added that ambition fosters growth and that companies must create environments where employees want to stay.
The panel underscored the need for inclusive practices, local investment, and accessible career pathways.
Oli de Botton, Chief Executive of the Careers & Enterprise Company, outli forward-thinking vision for careers education, emphasising collaboration innovation to prepare young people for their futures. He highlighted importance of tailored approaches at each stage of education. In primary sc careers education reduces stereotypes and raises aspirations. In secondary sc meaningful employer interactions and reflection on skills expose students to d career paths, including technical and vocational routes alongside higher educa
He emphasised the critical role of targeted transition support, particularly for 16 year-olds moving to college. Effective guidance during this phase signifi improves outcomes in employment, further study, and independent living.
Oli identified key shifts shaping the future of careers provision: improving q over coverage, increasing uptake of apprenticeships and technical ro embedding careers education into daily school life, and achieving uni excellence through collaboration.
He also discussed the government’s commitment to two weeks' worth of work experience for all students. Flexible models, such as hybrid or shorter placements, and targeted NEET prevention programmes are pivotal for success. Programmes, like ASK, inspire interest in apprenticeships and T-levels, while teacher training integrates industry knowledge into the curriculum.
Addressing challenges such as engaging SMEs and parents, simplifying work experience processes, and bridging disparities, he emphasised the need for collective effort. His vision reinforced the transformative potential of careers education when supported by innovation, inclusivity, and partnerships.
Explored the realities of inequality in the UK, particularly in Cambridge, and its impact on opportunities, community cohesion, and productivity.
This panel was hosted by Kath Austin from Form the Future and included Ryan Kelsall from Eastern Learning Alliance, Hollie Church from Illumina, Matthew Poole from Youth Futures Foundation and Cllr Dr Elisa Meschini from Greater Cambridge Partnership.
The focus of the panel discussion was on inclusive growth and exploring how we understand the needs of young people and what may cause them to become marginalised or at risk of NEET (not in employment, education or training).
There was a great use of the analogy of a suitcase by Ryan, and what any person may carry around with them impacts how they present themselves and communicate. Unpacking the suitcase and understanding the challenges a young person may be facing can help empower them to move forward.
There was a call for the government to invest more in vocational training, sustainable infrastructure, and transport, and identifying and focusing resources on what is needed. Also, the importance of collaboration and partnerships, to build local links with employers and young people to identify and access opportunities and support them to move on more confidently into work.
Cllr Dr. Elisa Meschini emphasised the importance of equity, stating that it involves "creating the right boxes, placing them under the right people, and raising the floor."
The first of our workshops was hosted by David Brockway from Form the Future. He was joined by Heidi Mulvey from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, Mark Kirby from Olive Academies, Joanna Starkie from PA Consulting, and Nick Frank from Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Local Skills Improvement Plan
The workshop underscored the transformative impact of work experience, which equips young people with vital skills, confidence, and exposure to professional environments. Government initiatives to mandate 15 hours of work experience in schools signal progress in making it “ a right for all students, not a privilege.”
Employers gain value from hosting students, with benefits like improved team collaboration and mentorship opportunities. Creative approaches, such as student consultancy projects, help organisations gain fresh perspectives while boosting students’ skills. Joanna from PA Consulting highlighted how students developing real-world prototypes “gained confidence and delivered tangible results.”
For schools, work experience is especially impactful for vulnerable students. Mark shared how a year-long placement transformed one student’s confidence and future prospects, showing that “it can mean the difference between exclusion and opportunity.” Flexible, ongoing formats were recommended to replace the traditional one-week model.
Work experience also builds critical soft skills like teamwork and adaptability, while virtual models increase accessibility to specialised industries. However, in-person placements remain essential for developing interpersonal skills. As Nick noted, work experience must be seen as “ a fundamental part of education” to ensure equitable opportunities for all students. The workshop highlighted its role in preventing unemployment and creating pathways to success for disadvantaged youth.
As Form the Future grows we are looking for more opportuniti knowledge and experience we have developed over the p working with schools, businesses and young people. With the CPCA we have created two resources to support schools and helping young people make the most of a work experience p resources look at current best practice, data from national ex own experience-led insights.
Each is free to access and available via the links below. We re School resource for Careers Leads or Coordinators (particularl post or looking to review their Work Experience programme) resource is aimed at any staff member with responsibility f maintaining a Work Experience programme.
To learn more about our plans for work experience or to conversation with our community of business partners, you can: Sign up to one of our newsletters
Register to attend our employer meeting on 28 Jan
In our second workshop, attendees discussed and exchanged ideas on the key themes of the day: Places & Spaces, People & Talent, Inclusive Growth, and Growing Together.
Working in groups, participants engaged in lively conversations, exploring these interconnected topics from diverse perspectives. The session provided a platform for attendees to connect with others, share experiences, and discuss challenges and opportunities within these areas. Each group brought their unique insights, enriching the overall dialogue and promoting a deeper understanding of the themes.
This interactive format encouraged participants to reflect on their own experiences, contribute ideas, and identify potential actions to address the topics discussed. It also served as a valuable networking opportunity, helping attendees build relationships that could extend beyond the conference.
Lessons and reflections from the forefront of the UK’s good growth agenda.
This panel was hosted by Gareth John from First Intuition and included Dan Thorp from Cambridge Ahead, Kim Hardman from AstraZeneca, and Mark Hilton from BusinessLDN.
The panellists explored how apprenticeships provide local industries with a chance to diversify their workforce and offer equal opportunities to young people. They emphasised the importance of such programmes in creating a skilled and inclusive pipeline of talent.
The panellists highlighted the role of Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs), stressing that Cambridge must build on employer leadership to ensure these plans align with the skills needed for sustainable economic development.
The discussion also focused on the Growing Together Alliance, a collaborative initiative in Cambridge aimed at fostering regional development. The panellists explained how many larger businesses establish offices in multiple locations across the country to tap into diverse talent and skills pools. This approach not only boosts local economies but also helps businesses thrive through access to a broader range of expertise.
The discussion reinforced that inclusive growth requires active collaboration across sectors. Whether through apprenticeships, employer-driven initiatives, or alliances like Growing Together, the panellists agreed that Cambridge is well-positioned to lead by example. By prioritising diverse and equitable opportunities for young people, the region can not only meet its immediate needs but also secure its long-term prosperity.
Fireside Chat with Andrea Wood MBE and Prashant Shah
Andrea Wood MBE, Assistant Director for Skills and Employment at Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, focused on key growth areas in the region, identifying Construction & Housing, Tech and Green Tech, Life Sciences, and Defence as pivotal sectors driving the local economy. She emphasised the importance of leveraging the region’s successes to unlock further funding for skills development and sustainable growth. By integrating achievements into strategic plans, the region can position itself for continued progress and resilience.
Andrea also shared a major announcement that Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have been selected as a trailblazer region for the UK Government’s “Get Britain Working" initiative. This designation positions the area as a leader in shaping the future of employment and economic development, offering a platform to innovate and implement impactful workforce strategies.
Closing Remarks by Form the Future’s Chair, Prashant Shah
In his closing remarks, Prashant Shah expressed gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and contributors for making the conference a success. He gave a special mention to Anne, commending her exceptional leadership as CEO and recognising how her dedication makes his role as Chair of the Board both fulfilling and impactful.
Prashant’s reflections underscored the collaborative spirit and shared vision of the conference, inspiring attendees to continue building on the themes of inclusive growth and regional collaboration.
Anglia Ruskin University
Arm
AstraZeneca
AVEVA
Axioned
Bango.Net Limited
Belbin Limited
Bennett Institute for Public Policy
Bidwells
Bruntwood SciTech
BusinessLDN
Cambridge Academy for Science and Technology
Cambridge Ahead
Cambridge City Council
Cambridge Econometrics
Cambridge Independent
Cambridge Insights
Cambridge Junction
Cambridge Marketing College
Cambridge Maths School
Cambridge Network
Cambridge Regional College
Cambridge Science Park
Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge
Cambridge University Health Partners
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Cambridge University Press & Assessment
Cambridge Wireless
Cambridge Wireless / Black Talent & Leadership in STEM
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority
Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce
Cambridgeshire Skills (Cambridgeshire County Council)
Cancer Research UK - Cambridge Institute
Careers and Enterprise Company
CIMSPA
College of West Anglia
Comberton Village College
Delivery Management
Digital Nomad
Digital Poverty Alliance
DMA
Eastern Education Group
Eastern Learning Alliance
EDIASD Limited
Endurance Estates
Essex County Council
Ethicronics
Fenland Adventure
First Intuition
Grafham Water Centre
Greater Cambridge Partnership
Hays
Hills Road Sixth Form College
Huntingdonshire District Council
Ibis Cambridge Central Station
IfM Engage - Shoestring
Illumina
Impington Village College
Innovate
Cambridge
Innovation Broking
Jianfeng Consulting Limited
Le Mark
Local Skills Improvement Plan, Cambridgeshire
Chambers of Commerce
Long Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge
M&S Estates
Marshall
Mishcon de Reya LLP
Momentum Cycling
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Natwest
North Cambridge Academy
Oakes College Cambridge
OE Cam
Olive Academies
Owers
Warwick Architects
PA Consulting
Parentkind
PEM
Pure Executive
RCHR
Region of Learning - Cambridge City Council
Rise Youth Coaching CIC
Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Trust
Sawston Village College
Screach
Socius
South Cambridgeshire District Council
St Ivo Academy
St Mary's School
St Peter's School
SustainableTech4Good
The Leys School
TrAC
Trumpington Community College
Turners Soham Ltd
University of Cambridge
Villiers Park Educational Trust
Volterra Partners LLP
West of England Institute of Technology
Wilsons of Cambridge
Wine & Spirit Education Trust
Youth Futures Foundation
Do you recruit or employ apprentices? If so, you might like to join Form the Future for its Apprenticeships Careers Fair which aims to inspire students from Years 10-13 on the wealth of apprenticeship opportunities available in our region.
This year, the fair will be held at Impington Village College on Thursday, 13 February 2025 to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week.
To find out more, please email Catherine Hay chay@formthefuture.org.uk.
On Tuesday, 4 March 2025, Form the Future will be holding its Annual Primary Schools Career Fair. The event will be held in conjunction with Cambridge Regional College, who will be hosting, and is timed to coincide with National Careers Week.
The event aims to create a fun, memorable and inspiring day that will broaden the horizons of the students (aged 911), introduce them to the career opportunities available in the Greater Cambridge area, and give them an early start in thinking about the decisions that they will need to make relating to their educational journey whilst at Secondary School.
To register your interest, please email Catherine Hay chay@formthefuture.org.uk.
