The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan hosted a Celebration Event for employers and schools who took part in the Council’s 2026 Work Experience project.
The Celebration Event, which was held at the Dunsilly Hotel in Antrim, highlighted some of the experiences of the pupils who enjoyed placements with local employers across the sectors.
This year’s Work Experience project saw over 250 opportunities for pupils across the Borough, helping young people gain valuable insight into the world of work.
Delivered in partnership with Workplus, the project supported both mainstream and SEN schools, connecting pupils with local employers across a wide range of sectors. Through the Workplus platform, employers were profiled to help schools and pupils explore various companies, career pathways and work experience opportunities available locally.
Speaking at the event The Mayor said:
“I am delighted the Council offers this programme to all young people across the Borough. Work experience offers a valuable first step beyond the classroom into the world of work. While it can be both exciting and a little daunting, it helps pupils build confidence, develop new skills, meet others, and start thinking about their future.
“This year’s participants have gained meaningful insight into working life and developed skills that will benefit them in the years ahead.
“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Workplus for their continued partnership, professionalism, and dedication in coordinating and supporting the programme.”
Ruth Harper, Project Manager at Workplus said, “Today’s event is a wonderful reflection of what this project is all about – creating connections and ensuring opportunities are accessible to all young people. Hearing the experiences of both pupils and employers demonstrates the real value of work experience. Pupils have been inspired by the possibilities available to them, and employers have been encouraged by the talent, enthusiasm and potential of the next generation entering the workforce.”
Stefanie Smyth, Careers Lead at Parkhall Integrated College, said, “The work experience programme gives our pupils access to opportunities and employers they wouldn’t have by themselves. It opens up the world of work to them in a meaningful way.”
Jenson, from Rosstulla School, said, “At Nando’s we did a bit of everything! Work experience teaches you how to get a job when you’re older.”
Grainne Donnelly, Talent Acquisition Special at Sensata Technologies, said, “As a local employer, it was great to be part of this project and let local pupils see the many aspects of an engineering company. We also talked the young people through what employers are looking for, what makes a good application and the many career opportunities available.”
A video of the project can now be viewed at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/workplus
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