Case Study: Occupational Segregation - Cranfield University

Cranfield University runs a variety of initiatives to encourage girls to experience non-traditional roles. The University targets local schools and promotes work experience placements particularly in science, engineering and manufacturing.

A dedicated person in the Vice-Chancellor’s office manages the process of matching work experience placements within the University The Departments involved in the placements are Engineering, Management, Air Traffic, Library, Finance, Catering, Estates, Cranfield Press, Human Resources and Applied Science. Each has a responsible person to ensure that the work experience trainee needs are met during the placements.

In addition, the University holds an annual ‘Bring Your Daughters to Work’ scheme for girls aged between 11 and 15. The aim of this initiative is to provide girls with the opportunity to experience a wider range of career options open to them.

University staff, including the Head of Employee Relations and other HR managers, have visited local schools to offer interview skills and to give feedback to the pupils on their performance. Other sessions are also organised to give pupils the opportunity to explore, through question and answer sessions, the current jobs and careers of University staff.

A presentation has been made to a local organisation which focuses on providing training and development to members with learning disabilities. The aim of the presentation was to raise the profile of job opportunities at the University