Page 13 - Plesner CSR UK 2018

Spreading the word
The next step for the School Project is to spread the word and inspire other compa- nies to embrace the idea. The role models have an important communication task here by spreading the message through their own workplaces and networks and through the many companies which over the years have opened their doors to these school pupils – and tomorrow’s employees.
“The School Project is a proven success, and I would really like to expand the project to the rest of Denmark. To that end, we have drawn up a script describing the key aspects of the project and illustrating how companies can start their own school project. At the moment, we are considering how best to pass the baton on to other companies who wish to commit
and make a difference to young people with challenges”, says Shaina Jabbar.
A former pupil at Nørrebro Park School and herself a pattern-breaker, Shaina Jabbar has been a role model since the School Project started – a job she finds particularly mean- ingful:
”I use the space and the opportunities I have as a role model for some of the girls in the School Project to share my own experience as a pattern-breaker and how, against all odds, I have succeeded. In my world, you can do and have everything if you really want it. Those are the seeds I would like to sow among the young people to enable them to make their own choices on an informed basis. Following the pupils and watching them grow in the course of the project is so rewarding to me.”
PROJECT MANAGER SCHOOL ROLE MODELS BUSINESS-VISITS STATUS-MEETINGS
About the School Project
The purpose of the School Project is to inspire young people to understand the impor- tance of taking school and education seriously and to motivate them to focus on the many job opportunities and freedoms that continuing education can offer.
Through the School Project, Plesner has established a long-term partnership with select- ed lower secondary school classes at two schools in the Nørrebro district, Nørrebro Park School and Blågård School, where many pupils face both language and social challenges. The partnership also includes “pattern-breakers”, typically people from non-Danish eth- nic backgrounds who act as role models for the students.