Oldham Council launches BREE to connect schools with employers

Oldham Council has launched a new online platform called BREE to connect local schools with employers, making it easier for businesses to share their expertise with young people. The Brokering Relationships Employers and Educators tool aims to reduce the pressure on companies while increasing meaningful career opportunities for students across the borough.

The platform, inspired by Manchester City Council's successful model with an 80% success rate, has already attracted several major employers. Construction firm Caseys Construction has partnered with North Chadderton School, with their staff delivering careers education sessions to students about opportunities in the construction sector.

Other early adopters include Willmott Dixon and Northern Care Alliance, who are helping to demonstrate how business involvement can shape future talent and strengthen social value in Oldham. The council's Get Oldham Working team is supporting employers to engage with the platform and meet their social value requirements.

Cllr Mohon Ali and Cllr Fida Hussain say the platform will connect education providers with businesses that shape Oldham's economy in a more coordinated way. They're encouraging employers of all sizes to register, whether they can offer workplace visits, mentoring, careers talks, or curriculum support.

The council believes BREE will strengthen partnerships between schools and businesses while helping to nurture the talent Oldham needs for the future.