FAQs – For Schools
The Derby Promise is a city-wide initiative to connect Derby schools with employers, cultural groups, and sports organisations to broaden horizons and raise aspirations for pupils aged 5–18. Your school can access enrichment opportunities, experiences of the workplace, and city-wide festivals.
Yes. All local authority, academy, and special schools within Derby City are eligible to take part, including primary, secondary, and post-16 providers.
Derby has one of the highest NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) rates in the East Midlands, and significant disparities in pupil outcomes based on background. This initiative aims to tackle that by giving all pupils meaningful opportunities, regardless of postcode or circumstance.
The Derby Promise is inclusive by design. Many participating employers and organisations offer tailored, supported experiences, and we actively work with schools to make opportunities accessible to pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
The offer spans the full school age range, with tailored activities for Key Stages 1–5, including transition years and preparation for post-16 education or employment.
No. There is no cost to schools for registering or accessing the core Derby Promise opportunities.
You can register your school via the [Derby Promise Schools Registration Form →]. Once registered, you'll gain access to the portal of offers and events.
You can browse and filter opportunities by age group, subject, or theme. Schools can also post specific requests, which are then matched with Derby Promise partners.
Absolutely. Derby Promise activities align with Gatsby Benchmarks, especially Benchmarks 5 and 6 (encounters with employers and experiences of the workplace).
You can email our Schools Engagement Lead for bespoke guidance and help shaping partnerships.
FAQs – For Employers
Derby Promise gives you a meaningful way to support local schools and raise aspirations. It’s also a powerful way to engage future talent, demonstrate social value, and build long-term connections with the community.
Anything from a one-off school visit or careers talk to structured work experience, project mentoring, tours of your workplace, curriculum-linked sessions, or supporting a cultural or sports event
It’s entirely flexible. Some partners offer a single 1-hour talk per year; others develop long-term links with specific schools. We’ll help you find a level that suits you.
Yes, if your operations have a presence in Derby or the surrounding area. Many national employers support local initiatives through regional branches or CSR teams.
Yes. All Derby Promise activities involving children require appropriate safeguarding. Our team can support you in understanding what’s needed and helping you meet those standards.
Derby faces significant challenges in skills development, particularly in sectors like engineering, health and social care, and creative industries. By engaging early, you help shape and inspire your future workforce.
Yes. We work closely with schools to create supported and inclusive experiences for pupils with SEND or those from disadvantaged backgrounds — groups disproportionately affected by Derby’s high NEET rate.
Small and micro businesses are not only welcome but essential. Many pupils benefit most from seeing the wide range of real jobs and pathways available across Derby’s economy.
Yes. Participating organisations may be recognised through case studies, local media coverage, and Derby Promise partner badges to share in your communications.
Complete the [Employer Registration Form →] and we’ll be in touch to explore how your organisation can get involved.