Celebrating success at our Summer Term Graduation

This special celebration event was held in honour of the amazing students who completed the Sector Weeks Programmes over the summer term, These unique, hands-on work experience programmes are designed to give young people a taste of careers in various industries, helping to show students from the Teesside region that anything really is possible, regardless of background or circumstances.

Students from Reintegreat and Unity City Academy explored sectors like Engineering, Maritime, and Business, gaining valuable insight into the working world. Sectors that are vital to the growth of the Teesside region and home to some amazing companies and loads of exciting career opportunities.

The graduation took place at Unity City Academy, where the students and guests received a warm welcome from Head of School, Mrs. J Gray. The event kicked off with an inspiring address from High Tide Chair, Mark Easby, who reflected on the importance of work experience and how far the foundation has come in reintroducing its full range of programmes over the past year.

Mark said, “It’s been incredibly exciting for us over the last 12 months to reintroduce our full range of programmes, including our in-school career workshops and much-loved work experience placements.

We are on a mission. A mission to raise aspirations, unlock potential, change perceptions, break down barriers, and create connections between young people and local employers. It’s about opportunities. Opportunities for everyone, and Teesside is a place full of opportunity.”

But the excitement didn’t end there. Mark shared some special news, announcing our new High Tide Ambassador role. We’ve created this new role to honour and recognise individuals who have been dedicated to our mission and have a real passion for the work we do.

Emily Skillcorn, an associate solicitor with Jacksons Law Firm, was announced as our first High TIde Ambassador. Emily was recognised for her outstanding commitment and support for the foundation’s work over many years.

The evening also featured a touching moment with a special guest, Katie Adamson, a former High Tide student who participated in a programme back in 2014. Katie took to the stage with her guitar and treated the audience to two incredible songs, showcasing not only her musical talent but the long-lasting impact High Tide has on its alumni.

The current graduates didn’t miss the chance to shine either! In a lively Q&A session with General Manager Lauren Bywater, the students confidently shared their experiences on the Sector Weeks Programme. Their stories were inspiring, showing how far they’ve come in developing their skills, gaining confidence, and exploring new career paths.

The event brought together a strong network of local businesses, all of whom played a key role in making this year’s Sector Weeks Programme a success. Lauren extended a heartfelt thanks to the companies who generously provided placements and opportunities for these bright young minds over the summer.

Lauren comments:

“We’re on a mission to connect young people with local employers. But we can’t do that alone, and we need the incredible support of local businesses. To those business who have joined us this evening, and all who supported this year’s programmes, thank you for giving us your time, commitment, people and resources.

It’s vital our programmes are industry led and students meet real-life business and the people behind them. We really couldn’t do our work without you.”

Alongside the foundation’s corporate partners — Casper Shipping, Jacksons Law Firm, and PD Ports — other businesses that stepped up included AV Dawson, Big Bite, Better Brand, Elite Consult, Tees River Trust, Wilton Engineering, Tees Works, Falck, Sembcorp, NRL Recruitment, and Svitzer.

As the evening drew to a close, there was an overwhelming sense of pride and optimism for the future. The graduation not only celebrated the achievements of these remarkable students but also highlighted the power of collaboration between local businesses, educators, and High Tide to create life-changing opportunities for the next generation.

If you’d like to get involved in our programmes or learn more about our work, please contact Lauren at lauren@hightidefoundation.co.uk.