Managers urged to take students under wing

By Tom Edwards

THE Institute of Directors is appealing for companies to take on students for the 2008 management shadowing scheme. More than 50 sixth form pupils from the Grammar School, Blanchelande Girls’, Elizabeth and Ladies’ colleges took part in the KPMG-sponsored initiative in 2007.

Students were placed with companies in all sectors, spanning finance, media, education, leisure, the civil service and general industry and commerce.

Not to be confused with work experience, the aim is to give a first-hand taste of management in action through observing how managers operate in the real world.

‘The scheme can be a very positive experience for the manager as well as students,’ said the IoD’s Martyn Mann, managing director of Polar Instruments.

‘There is no doubt that the students benefit the most from the shadowing, but feedback we receive from the managers suggests that the experience often gives them food for thought.

‘The students can bring a new perspective and give a fresh approach to procedures and problems.

‘The managers who take part in the scheme are helping to shape the next generation.

‘We are grateful to those who have taken part in the scheme before and would urge those organisations who have not got involved before to try it out.’

The scheme is administered by the GTA University Centre, the deputy chief executive of which, Fiona Naftel, is always amazed by the enthusiasm of the students.

‘Management shadowing is a great scheme that has the ability to really put things in perspective for those taking part,’ she said.

‘As well as looking great on a CV or Ucas form, actively observing skills that a good manager should possess prepares them for life in the working world.’