20 sixth-form students, all studying business or economics at Congleton High School, recently enjoyed a visit to our offices in Congleton.
Setting out with the aim of giving students interested in a career in financial planning an insight into what that might look like, the day was also attended by David Watson, Chief Executive of East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise.
The day started with an introduction by Managing Director and founding Partner, Andrew Chatterton. The students worked in groups throughout the day, enjoying talks about a number of roles within Franklyn, such as paraplanner and financial adviser, before undertaking a series of tasks.
The tasks included discussing potential interview questions for a role in the financial industry, working on two articles about retirement planning and finance awareness at an early age, and playing an investment game hosted by St. James’s Place, the international wealth management specialists with whom we are a Senior Partner Practice.
Andrew Chatterton was impressed: “I think we enjoyed the day as much as the students. We took them through different aspects of working in financial planning, the different roles available and what employers in this industry look for, and their enthusiasm was very refreshing.”
In attendance was the school’s Head Girl, Chloe Tatton, who is set to join us later this year. Talking about starting her career here, Chloe said, “Personally, I didn’t want to go to university. I didn’t like the idea of acquiring a large student debt and I’d rather learn through the practical experience of working, so I was looking for different options.
“After attending a networking event here [at Franklyn’s offices] earlier this year, I was really interested in Franklyn and what they do. It’s a very friendly, inviting company and the sense of commitment to customers stands out. I messaged Ian, came in for an interview and now here I am, set to start later this year.”
According to Jill Sadat-Shafai, Congleton High’s Work Experience Co-ordinator, Chloe’s far from the only student to have benefitted. “The school is very grateful for Franklyn inviting the students along. They have taken so much away, not only gaining experience of what it’s like to work within financial management, but also developing a further understanding of how important financial planning is and the necessity to look after your finances.”
The day, orchestrated by Ian Cottrill, Business Relationship Manager here at Franklyn is just an example of our involvement in education within East Cheshire. There are plans for further careers days as part of our ongoing commitment to helping future generations.
Ian commented, “I worked for many years as a teacher before joining Franklyn. During that time, I saw what a difference involving schoolchildren in businesses can make to their education. Doing what we do, we can help teach young people, not only about career paths, but about the things that will be particularly relevant throughout their lives – the value of money and investing it wisely.”
Franklyn would like to work with like-minded businesses in developing a programme of education for all young people across the region and are currently working on a number of projects with local schools. If you feel that your business would like to be involved, then contact Ian Cottrill at Franklyn on 01260 291825.