Oasis of talent just waiting to be tapped..

Oasis Academy Oldham welcomes CBI and urges more businesses to ‘get involved’ (from the left) David Hayes, Eric Bishyika and North West CBI Director Damian Waters.

LOCAL businesses are being urged to get involved with Oasis Academy Oldham following a visit by Britain’s biggest trade body.

Damian Waters, North-West director of the CBI (Confederation of British Industry), toured the new £30 million school in Hollins.

The pupils he met included 16-year-old Eric Bishyika who has launched his own clothing range Swagginstien Wear.

Mr Waters said: “In supporting pupils like Eric to set up in business, the academy is focusing on a rounded education.

“The hard reality is that the North-West does not have enough businesses and we need to encourage a culture of ‘can do’ entrepreneurialism in young people.

“At Eric’s age you have very little to lose setting up in business but you can learn an enormous amount to help you in your career.

“Employers want schools to do much more of this kind of teaching and learning.

“Of course, literacy and numeracy are fundamental as are science, technology and engineering skills which are so important in our modern world. Nevertheless employers tell us repeatedly it is the broader people skills and characteristics that they look for in individuals as well as academic ability.

“These skills include initiative, team working, resilience, determination, energy, drive and enthusiasm.

“I applaud Oasis Oldham for recognising this.”

Academy principal David Hayes wants local firms to get involved with the academy and said: “I am really grateful to Damian for sparing the time to come and hear about how we want to work with businesses.
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