High fliers get their wings

Published: November 1999

Relay Recruitment’s Partnership with Schools initiative has seen high-flying pupils from Dixon’s City Technical College in Bradford gain their paragliding licences at HM Richard Allen Barrack in Topcliffe, North Yorkshire.

Six students, selected for their academic achievements, contributions to college life or progress in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, got their wings. The two-day programme involved instruction in paraglider control, then being lifted to 1,000ft by Land Rover towrope before descending safely to earth.

In taking part, the youngsters braved 16 hours of cold, drizzly weather conditions. Despite this, there were sufficient thermals for everyone to enjoy a leisurely return to terra firma.

The Partnership with Schools programme involves careers advice to students, the provision of equipment and bursaries, and the organisation of extra-curricular activities such as the paragliding event. It has a serious aim, according to Relay managing director, Steven Street.

“We have recognised the inherent benefits to a company such as ours of partnerships with schools, and are working hard to promote relationships with students through their transition to adult life and their chosen careers.

“As well as a traditional academic focus, Dixon’s CTC is known as a pioneer in the creation of a sense of citizenship among students. This was evident at the paragliding sessions, where they worked together during their training, and offered colleagues much-needed support when it came to taking to the skies. Such characteristics will continue to be in demand in the skills-led marketplace of the future, and are where we hope to maintain our competitive edge by presenting clients with well-rounded, highly proficient candidates.”

Currently, Relay is planning to broaden the scheme by sending its consultants in to West Yorkshire schools to offer careers advice to students.