Asda takes school engagement programme national with new virtual rollout

Asda is taking its school engagement programme nationwide for the first time as it enters its third year, launching a new virtual model to reach schools and colleges across England.

Building on two years of strong engagement with students across Yorkshire, where nearly 50 schools and over 500 pupils have already taken part, the new format is designed to help more young people develop career skills and make a positive impact in their communities.

Launching in September, teachers will be able to deliver the programme directly in classrooms via an online platform, with access to half-termly lesson plans, videos, slide decks and activities.

The initiative focuses on developing employability skills such as teamwork, confidence and public speaking, while encouraging students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges aligned to Asda’s ESG priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The programme will continue to be delivered through two strands nationwide:

• Asda Heroes – a programme for primary pupils, SEND settings and alternative provisions, focused on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and building meaningful difference in local communities.

• Asda Leaders – for Year 10 and Year 12 students nationally, combining ESG challenges with mentoring from Asda colleagues and a final “Dragons’ Den”-style presentation of their business plan.

Schools will also benefit from additional support including mock interviews, employability workshops, parent & teacher engagement and career pathway guidance.

The expansion follows positive feedback from previous years, with schools reporting increased student confidence, engagement and awareness of career opportunities.

Emma Brough, Director of Learning at Asda, said: “After two successful years working with schools across Yorkshire, we’re incredibly proud to be taking our school engagement programme to a national level.

“This programme is designed to showcase hidden careers within Retail and give students practical skills they can carry into their future careers. By introducing a virtual offer, we’re giving even more young people access to meaningful learning experiences that they can apply to their local communities and future careers.”

Interested schools should email [email protected] to register their interest.