The Bermuda Public Service and the Ministry of Education have developed a partnership to expose students to career opportunities within the Public Service.
Last week, the Minister of Education, Senator Crystal Caesar, and the Head of the Public Service, Cherie-lynn Whitter, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes a five-year partnership commencing in the academic year 2025/2026. The partnership aims to provide learning opportunities for students through various Signature Learning Programmes. The Public Service in Bermuda offers a wide array of career opportunities across numerous sectors, providing essential services to the community and contributing to the island's development. Four ministries and departments will pilot the initiative.
"The Ministry of Education recognises the role that the public service plays as Bermuda's largest employer," said Minister Caesar. "The goal is to enhance student learning and present public service as a viable career path."
The Bermuda Fire & Rescue Services, the Department of Financial Assistance, the Ministry of Public Works & Environment, and the Department of Health will support students enrolled in the Bermuda Public School System (BPSS) Signature Learning Programmes (SLPs).
The Bermuda Fire & Rescue Services will assist those enrolled in Health & Social Care, Trades & Professions, and STEAM Signature Learning Programmes, focusing on the Medical Sciences & Services, Engineering, and Automotive Technology Signature Strands.
The Department of Financial Assistance will support students enrolled in Health & Social Care and Education Services Signature Learning Programmes, emphasising the Social Sciences & Services Strand.
The Ministry of Public Works & Environment will aid students in STEAM and Trades & Professions Signature Learning Programmes, focusing on Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Automotive Technology, Electrical, Carpentry, and Horticulture Signature Learning Programmes.
The Department of Health will support students enrolled in the Health & Social Care Signature Learning Programme, specifically those pursuing Medical Sciences and services, Social Sciences and services, and Holistic and allied Health Care Services.
This initiative aims to provide educational opportunities and career pathways for Bermuda public school students, ensuring they receive the necessary resources and guidance to pursue their fields of interest.
Head of Public Service, Cherie Whitter, stated, "This partnership supports our commitment to equipping the next generation of Bermudians with the skills and knowledge needed for their careers."
Ms. Whitter added, "This partnership with the Senior Signature School supports the "Re-imagining Careers in the Public Service" campaign launched last year and will provide students with various opportunities, including scholarships and bursaries following high school graduation."
Through the Education Reform Unit's (ERU) Learning Partnerships Workstream, the Ministry of Education actively recruits partners to enhance these programmes. Signature Learning Partnerships aim to deliver real-world learning experiences for young Bermudians to develop their knowledge and skills. Organisations interested in contributing to this initiative can visit www.learningfirstbda.com/for-partners or call (+1) 441-278-3375 for more information.