Yorkshire security experts Gough & Kelly have teamed up with Kirklees College to run an initiative designed to rejuvenate the security and stewarding industry whilst opening up career pathways for students.
The Leeds-based security firm provides weekly supported stewarding opportunities at venues and events around the region for students on the Uniformed Services course at Kirklees College. This is enabling students to gain practical experience of high-profile events at clubs such as Castleford Tigers and Leeds United, whilst continuing their education.
A year into the programme, six students have secured permanent part-time roles with Gough & Kelly. Katie Stanley, programme manager at Kirklees College, says the initiative is opening students’ eyes to careers beyond the traditional uniformed services:
“People tend to think of uniformed services in terms of police, fire service and paramedic roles, and not necessarily security positions such as manned guarding and stewarding.
“We’re very grateful to the team at Gough & Kelly for showing students what a career in the security industry can look like and giving them opportunities to experience it for themselves alongside their studies.”
Sean Morgan, client manager at Gough & Kelly adds, “A lot of people come into the security industry as a temporary measure, or later in life following careers in the army or prison services. We would like more young people to see and experience security services as a career option, which will in turn bring fresh ideas into the sector.”
Katie says that the added dimension of real-world experience that Gough & Kelly has brought to the Uniformed Services course has been “invaluable” to students.
“We have seen real change in some students as a result of their practical experience; increased confidence and pride in their work,” she says. “Gough & Kelly has also sponsored some students through additional National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ). These qualifications and experience will change the lives of some these students.”