The Forshaw Group’s managing director, Liam Hanlon, and operations director, John Calvert, were delighted to attend the Kirkby High School assembly on Wednesday 1 July to present recognition certificates to Mason Black and Layton Caldicutt, following the successful completion of their work experience placements with the business.
Welcome additions
Mason and Layton joined The Forshaw Group from 5 to 8 May 2026 as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to developing young people through the award-winning INS-PIRE Apprenticeship Academy.
The Forshaw Group has enjoyed a long-standing and successful relationship with Kirkby High School through the Knowsley Schools Partnership, working closely with teachers and careers leaders to help bridge the gap between education and employment.
Each year, The Forshaw Group offers a carefully selected number of work experience opportunities, giving students a valuable insight into the world of work whilst helping them develop the confidence, skills and behaviours employers are looking for.
The presentations recognised not only the successful completion of their placements but also the outstanding resilience, commitment, enthusiasm and positive attitude demonstrated by both students throughout the week. These qualities will undoubtedly help support their transition from school into employment, apprenticeships or further education over the coming year.
Shortening the skills gap
By providing meaningful employer engagement, careers talks, mentoring, site visits and work experience placements, the partnership helps students better understand the opportunities available within the construction, property restoration and insurance sectors.
Meaningful work experience plays a vital role in helping young people make informed career choices. It allows students to develop essential employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, punctuality and personal responsibility, whilst giving them the confidence to explore career pathways they may never have previously considered. For employers, it also provides an opportunity to inspire the next generation of talent and showcase the wide variety of rewarding careers available within the industry.
INS-PIRING the future
The Forshaw Group remains committed to investing in future generations through the King’s Award for Enterprise-winning INS-PIRE Apprenticeship Academy, ensuring that young people are given every opportunity to fulfil their potential regardless of their background.
By working collaboratively with schools, employers and education partners, INS-PIRE Academy continues to create life-changing opportunities that support social mobility, develop future skills and strengthen local communities.
A credit to their school
Speaking of the assembly, Liam Hanlon said: “It was a privilege to recognise Mason and Layton in front of their fellow students and teachers. Their commitment, willingness to learn and positive attitudes made a real impression on everyone they worked alongside.
“Work experience is often a young person’s first opportunity to experience the expectations of the workplace, and both students embraced the challenge exceptionally well. We wish them every success as they prepare for the next stage of their education and future careers.”
Congratulations once again to Mason Black and Layton Caldicutt on their achievements. Everyone at The Forshaw Group wishes them every success for the future.
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