This week marks the 25th anniversary of a charity that helps young people prepare for the world of work across the Thames Valley.

Since Learning to Work were established in 1994 tens of thousands of school children have benefited from their services. A quarter of a century later 18,000 young people are helped annually by Learning to Work through a variety of activities.

The charity helps set up work experience, business insight days, career and apprenticeships events and inter-school competitions. They also help students with special needs who struggle with mainstream education.

Learning to Work originally worked in East Berkshire but has since merged with the Central Berkshire EPB (Educational Business Partnership.) This partnership has allowed the organization to expand its services throughout the Thames Valley.

CEO of the charity, Rachael Burt, said: “We are so excited to be celebrating 25 years of helping young people in Berkshire. Our crucial work would not be possible without the fantastic support of our business partners.

“The secret to our success is making sure our activities are impactful, relevant and a win – win, for both the young people and the businesses.”

Paul Britton, Chief Executive of the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, added: “Happy 25th anniversary to Learning to Work. We have worked closely with the team for a number of years and have welcomed and appreciated their presence on the Slough Chamber of Commerce Council for over ten years and more recently their guidance and support in launching the new Young Chamber initiative.”

If you would like find out more about Learning to Work and find out how to get involved, visit www.learningtowork.org.uk.