On Friday, 10th October 2025, Benfield School hosted the first NEAT Academy Trust Business Breakfast of the new academic year. The event brought together 45 delegates from a wide range of businesses, community organisations, and local authority partners for a morning of collaboration, insight, and connection.
The focus of the morning was our evolving Work Experience Model, a key part of NEAT’s Cradle to Careers approach. Together, we explored the new Work Experience Standards, which set out expectations for meaningful experiences totalling 50 hours. The discussion also included the Equalex Framework and how employers can support schools to ensure every pupil has equitable access to high-quality experiences that build skills for life and work.
A highlight of the morning was hearing directly from our Benfield Year 10 pupils and Young Leaders. They spoke with confidence and honesty about the value of mentoring, the difference it has made to their outlook, and how relationships with local business mentors have inspired their future ambitions.
The event also looked ahead to NEAT Green Careers Week in November, the first for the Trust, which will shine a light on local and regional opportunities in the growing green economy. The week will also emphasise the importance of sustainability and environmental awareness within education, helping our young people understand their role in shaping a better future.
The morning was filled with positive discussions, new links, and renewed energy for the term ahead. It was great to reconnect with partners after the summer and to welcome new organisations into the NEAT network.
Now in its fourth year, our Cradle to Careers project continues to grow stronger through meaningful partnerships with businesses and community groups. The progress we have made would not be possible without the ongoing support of our partners, and we extend our thanks to everyone who attended, as well as those who sent their apologies.
A special thank you to Aspens for sponsoring the event and providing an amazing buffet breakfast for our guests.
Get Involved
If you are an organisation or community group interested in attending our next Business Breakfast or supporting one of our key events, please contact the NEAT Academy Trust central team by clicking here →Contact Us. We would love to hear from you.
Thank you again for your support—we couldn’t do it without you!