STUDENTS have boosted their future employment credentials after taking part in a work experience programme with Lloyds Banking Group.

The youngsters are from Steyning Grammar School, Patcham High School and Brighton, Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College

The week-long programme is designed to develop students’ financial literary knowledge and help improve their chances in the job market.

Seventeen pupils aged 15-18 joined a series of workshops to learn valuable skills such as how to write a strong CV, interview and presentation techniques, as well as gaining insight into day-to-day banking.

They also took part in mentoring sessions with recent graduates and apprentices to hear about their experiences in the working world.

To help with their understanding of financial services organisations, the students were given access to different business areas within Lloyds Banking Group.

Jevan Cousins, from Brighton, Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College, took part and said: “The programme provided valuable insight into the world of work and guidance on improving your chances in the job market.

“I plan to apply these skills in the future and hope it will make the process of applying for work experience and permanent employment a little less daunting.”

On completion of the programme, students were introduced to the Chartered Bankers Foundation qualification, which is widely recognised across the banking industry as a benchmark to ensure high standards of professional development and customer service.

The bank is hoping to see more students participating in work experience placements and has just secured its first placement for a teenager who will be working alongside the Project Management team at the City Park branch in Hove this month.

Tara Foley, Lloyds Banking Group Ambassador for the South East of England, said: “As part of our Helping Britain Prosper plan, we’re partnering with a number of schools across the region to help improve career support services and nurture and grow local talent.

“That may be holding mock interviews, CV writing guidance or showcasing the different career paths that pupils have available to them locally.

“We want to ensure we’re equipping young people with a range of employability skills and careers advice to enable them to overcome barriers into an increasingly competitive workplace.”