A COMPANY boss has been mentoring sixth formers in business skills.

John Davies, MD of Poole-based security solutions manufacturer TDSi, is taking part in a mentoring scheme at Bournemouth’s Bourne Academy.

The idea of the Bourne Ambassador Mentoring Scheme is to provide students with a business expert who can help them develop skills to help in their future careers.

Vicky Woodings, raising achievement and lifelong learning co-ordinator at The Bourne Academy, said: “The rationale behind the scheme is to offer students real-world benefits and help with skills that will help them find a career when they leave education.

“Many of our students come from deprived areas, where career aspirations are sometimes lacking. We also know there are certain skills shortages for businesses in the area, so we aim to match students and local businesses leaders such as John, making our students more employable and helping to meet these shortfalls.

“Mentors can assist with basic skills such as putting a CV together or help with interview techniques, so the learning process can be done in a friendly and supportive environment. They can also give honest and constructive feedback so students know how to appeal to potential employers.”

Thirty-two students at the academy are currently working with a range of volunteer business mentors, each having around six meetings a year.

John Davies is mentoring engineering student Mateusz Zalewski, who is keen to have a career in industry.

Mr Davies said: “I think a lot of the help we can offer students is instilling what I’d call ‘business sense’.

“This will involve being in a business environment, taking students along to business meetings and showing them how the culture works and what they can expect.”