About Us

High Tide is an independent charity based in Teesside committed to improving opportunities for young people aged 11-16. Through real-life work experiences and life-changing programmes, we open up a world of opportunities and show our region’s young people that anything really is possible, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Focused solely on Tees Valley, we’re on a mission to raise aspirations, unlock potential, change perceptions, break down barriers and create meaningful connections between students and local employers.

Since 2012, we’ve partnered with local schools and businesses to deliver life-changing, industry-led programmes that showcase career opportunities and provide real-world work experiences.

For businesses, schools, and other stakeholders, we are a catalyst for change. Through our unique industry-led approach to connecting employers and schools, we create the opportunity for everyone to play their part in shaping the future of our region.

Who do we work with

11-16 Year Old in Tees Valley – Young people aged 11-16 who need opportunity and are looking for inspiration. They are unlikely to have been exposed to real-world work experience before and may need more guidance, connections or understanding to take the next step. But we show them that anything is possible right here in Tees Valley.

Businesses in Tees Valley – We are also here for businesses in Tees Valley looking to address skills gaps and build the workforce of the future. Facing recruitment challenges and corporate social responsibility commitments, businesses often need help connecting with young people and the next generation of talent. By bringing industry and education closer together, we are collectively shaping a better, more inclusive, more accessible career landscape.

Secondary Schools in Tees Valley – We connect to young people via their schools, which are looking to improve opportunities for their students. Students need help finding engaging, meaningful, and varied real-world career experiences. We connect schools to local businesses through tailored programmes, helping them support young people in reaching their full potential.


Want to find out more?

If you’d like to get involved with High Tide, please call Lauren on 07834 176945 or drop us an email at lauren@hightidefoundation.co.uk.

33,500

Students supported since 2012
with life-changing industry-led work experience programmes and enrichment events

28,000

Hours of engagement with employers
connecting students directly with people in various job roles for real-life career experiences

750

Business members involved
from a range of sectors who co-designed and delivered our industry-led career programmes

"“This has been so educational, not only for the students but also the teachers; I had no idea of what really went on down here. This is great knowledge that I can take back with me and share with the other colleagues and students.”"

Teacher, Middlesbrough

""It was very informative and was definitely worth every minute. The speakers and staff were very kind and helped us all build a better understanding of the world of engineering. This was an insight I doubt I could have gotten anywhere else.""

Year 7 Student, Redcar

"“I am grateful for the help and life changing experience High Tide have gave me and believe that I wouldn’t have got this chance anywhere else. I believe that without high tide I would have never received or had an opportunity to gain valuable experience and knowledge”"

Year 6 Student, Middlesbrough

"“My experience with High Tide provided me with amazing opportunities and allowed me to meet very influential people who have helped me to gain confidence as well as skills I will take with me for the rest of my life.""

Year 6 Student, Middlesbrough

"Start to finish there was loads of enthusiasm from the employees and the students! Really fun to be a part of this!"

Age 17, 5-day VWEX (Engineering)

"I enjoyed the work experience, I learnt new skills on how to write my CV and what employers look for."

Age 13, Discovery day (Employability)

Our Corporate Partners

Casper Shipping
Jacksons Law Firm
PD Ports