Speakers for Schools
Access to the very top for all young people
Founded in 2010 by ITV’s Political Editor, Robert Peston, our aim is to end educational inequality by giving all young people access to the same prestigious networks available to the top fee-paying schools in the UK. Through talks from today’s influential figures via our Inspiration programme, our Experience work experience programme linking state school students to industry-leading companies and networked support partners we are helping level the playing field for young people of all backgrounds. And, we keep our services for our schools and students entirely free of charge.
What We Do
Our aspirational engagements, put young people in touch with the very best, to spark their ambitions and the belief in what is possible for the future. Speakers for Schools brings together eminent figures of today, from FTSE 100s and arts leaders to CEOs and tenured professors, creating a dynamic network of thousands of school talks and esteemed work experience placements – all for free.
So far, we have reached over 1,000,000 students nationwide through our school talks and work experience programme.
Speakers for Schools facilitates over 2,500 engagements and placements a year, having reached over a third of all secondary schools and colleges across the UK. Founded by Robert Peston and chaired by Andrew Law with a board of trustees, it is funded by the Law Family Charitable Foundation.
Apply online for work experience
Speakers for Schools is a UK-wide charity, covering over 80% of local authorities each year. We can accept applications from any state-maintained secondary school, academy or college (11-18 yrs) for either our Inspiration speaker programme or our Experience portal for insight days and work experience. Availability of speakers and placements do vary and change year-on-year so be sure to sign up to both programmes to be notified when we are able to work with your school.
Try different jobs in real life through free VWEX so you can find the best fit for you.
- Experience the world of work first-hand
- Gain an insight into different roles across a wide range of industries
- Find out about the various career paths available
- Build on your skills and improve your self-confidence
- Get evidence of extra-curricular activities for your personal statement or CV
- Meet senior professionals from leading UK organisations
- Expand your network to include potential employers
Contact Us
Create your free Experience account with Speakers for Schools; an award winning national charity widening access to eye-opening work experience at s4snextgen.org or email education@speakersforschools.org