Government Skills Adviser Praful Nargund Joins Students to Discuss the Future of Work and Opportunity

In the latest episode of Inspire Education Trust's TrustTalk Podcast, we welcome Praful Nargund, Skills Adviser to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and Founder and Director of the Good Growth Foundation, for an insightful conversation about the future of skills, employment and opportunities for young people.

Recorded at Blue Coat CofE School, the episode sees our CEO, Lois Whitehouse, joined by Year 12 Politics students Libby, Obaayaa and Aryan, who take over the interviewing duties and put their questions directly to Praful.

Exploring the Future of Skills and Employment

Throughout the conversation, students explore some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing young people as they prepare for life beyond education.

From apprenticeships and technical qualifications to artificial intelligence and the changing world of work, Praful shares his insights into how education, government and employers can work together to ensure young people have the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to succeed.

A particular focus of the discussion is the importance of meaningful work experience and ensuring opportunities are accessible to all young people, regardless of their background or personal connections.

Praful also reflects on his own journey through business, politics and public service, sharing valuable advice about following your passions, developing communication skills and not being afraid to fail.

From the Classroom to the Podcast Studio

The podcast recording followed Praful's visit to Blue Coat, where he spent time engaging with Sixth Form Politics students about the importance of work experience and creating opportunities for young people.

During the visit, students explored how local employers, including businesses around the Seven Stars Industrial Estate, could support young people through work placements, mentoring, workplace visits and careers activities.

Students also shared their own ideas for a campaign aimed at encouraging businesses to provide more meaningful work experience opportunities.

Praful praised their enthusiasm and commitment, encouraging them to continue developing their ideas and offering his support as they look to turn their proposals into action.

The visit and podcast provided a fantastic opportunity for students to engage directly with someone involved in shaping national policy, giving them a voice in conversations about the opportunities and challenges that will shape their futures.

Praful Nargund Visits Blue Coat

Giving Young People a Voice

At Inspire Education Trust, we believe in creating opportunities for young people to develop their confidence, broaden their horizons and have their voices heard.

This episode of TrustTalk demonstrates exactly that, with our students leading an engaging and thought provoking conversation about the issues that matter to them and their peers.

We would like to thank Praful for joining us, sharing his experiences and engaging so enthusiastically with our students, and congratulate Libby, Obaayaa and Aryan for their fantastic interviewing skills.

Listen to the Latest Episode