Why We're Needed

Despite the area’s rich industrial heritage, bright future and vibrant business community, many young people are unaware of the diverse career opportunities and choices available on their doorstep.

This lack of awareness and exposure can limit their aspirations and potential, creating a gap between education and the world of work, meaning there is a significant need for a charity like High Tide Foundation in Tees Valley. We open up a world of opportunity by showcasing career opportunities, raising aspirations, unlocking potential, and creating connections. We are making a lasting difference in young people’s lives and our community’s future, breaking down barriers and creating meaningful connections between students and local employers.

Bridging the Gap

High Tide Foundation bridges the gap between students and local employers. Through our industry-led workshops and hands-on work experience programmes, we open up the world of opportunities in Tees Valley. By connecting young people with local employers, we help them see, often for the first time, the real possibilities for their futures.

Raising Aspirations

Our programmes raise aspirations by showing students what they can achieve with the right opportunity, guidance and support. In many cases, students might need role models around them that can help open up the wide range of career paths and opportunities available to them in Tees Valley. High Tide connects students with employers and industry role models, helping to provide real-life inspiration and connections.

Unlocking Potential

Many young people in Teesside have incredible potential but need the right opportunities to unlock it. High Tide’s programmes help students build their confidence, discover opportunities and develop their skills through real-world experiences and direct engagement with local businesses.

Creating Connections

One of the most significant barriers to employment for young people is a need for more connections. High Tide helps break down this barrier by creating meaningful connections between students and local employers. These connections can lead to mentorship, apprenticeships, internships, and job opportunities, providing a direct pathway from education to employment.

Supporting Local Businesses

For businesses 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. By engaging with our programmes, businesses can invest long-term in the Tees Valley and play a crucial role in shaping the region’s future workforce, ensuring they have access to the local talent they need to grow.

Making a Lasting Impact

Our 12-year track record of delivery showcases the life-changing impact of our programmes. We’ve seen countless success stories where students have gone on to achieve great things thanks to the opportunities and support provided by High Tide. By continuing to expand our reach and deepen our impact, we aim to ensure that every young person in Teesside has the chance to realise 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