HSBC and Zero Gravity: Investing in Future Digital Apprentices

On the 29^th of April, Zero Gravity (a Rigby Foundation ‘Inspiring Futures’ Charity Partner) and HSBC delivered a Careers and Interview Workshop for twenty-four 16–18 year old sixth form students from King Edward Vi Sheldon Heath (an Inspiring Futures Education Partner) at HSBC’s head office in Birmingham.

After a breakfast of delicious pastries, the day began with a focus on interview techniques and some interview-based role play, delivered by members of the HSBC recruitment team. The students were put into groups and encouraged to discuss their learnings from the workshop and to try out some of the techniques, such as the importance of researching the role and company, highlighting and aligning with the values of the employer and being able to articulate appropriate skills and knowledge, relevant to the role.  

Following a short break, the next part of the day concentrated on pathways into careers at HSBC, with a particular steer towards their Degree Apprenticeship program, including a panel discussion with current degree apprentices.  The panel shared their experiences, from their interest in the role and HSBC, to the application process and their future aspirations.

It was wonderful to see the pupils so fully engaged and asking such pertinent and insightful questions. It was also great for us at The Rigby Foundation to learn more about the other businesses our charity partners are working with and how these benefit local young people.

Zero Gravity UK is a charity that has developed a pioneering social mobility platform dedicated to unlocking the potential of high-achieving students from low-opportunity backgrounds. Founded by Joe Seddon, the organisation uses technology to connect talented students from less advantaged backgrounds with mentors, scholarships, and career opportunities, helping them to secure places at top universities and to access prestigious graduate roles.

Since its launch in 2020, Zero Gravity has powered over 8,000 students into Russell Group universities and aims to create a £1 billion uplift in lifetime earnings for their participants by 2025.

As part of the partnership with The Rigby Foundation’s Inspiring Futures programme, from this September, sixth form students (16-18) from King Edward Vi Sheldon Heath and St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School will have access to all the support that Zero Gravity offer. The Foundation is wholly supportive of the charity’s vision - that by breaking down barriers to success, we can help reshape the landscape of education and employment, ensuring that talent, not background, determines a student's future.