The council is excited to announce the launch of BREE – Brokering Relationships Employers and Educators, a new online tool designed to bridge the gap between local employers and educators.
BREE aims to simplify the way schools and colleges connect with businesses, reducing pressure on employers while increasing meaningful opportunities for students. The platform makes it easier than ever for collaboration and offers a coordinated brokerage approach to support skills and careers education. BREE has been shaped through consultation with educators and employers across the area, ensuring the system reflects the needs and priorities of both parties.
This initiative has been inspired by the success of Manchester City Council, who have used the BREE model for several years with an impressive 80% success rate in brokering relationships between employers and education providers. Oldham Council is proud to bring the benefits of BREE to our local area and expand the opportunities available to young people whilst reducing demand on employers.
Several key employers have already signed up, including Caseys Construction, Willmott Dixon, and Northen Care Alliance. These flagship organisations are leading the way in demonstrating how business involvement can shape future talent, support local educators, and strengthen their social value. As part of the rollout, Caseys Construction has undertaken excellent work with North Chadderton and developed a strong partnership. Their staff have been attending the school to deliver careers education sessions, supporting students with insights into careers within the construction sector. Our Get Oldham Working team are also proudly contributing to the initiative by supporting the employers they work with to engage with BREE and support their social value requirements.
Cllr Mohon Ali, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills and Cllr Fida Hussain, Cabinet Member for Enterprise, say that by using BREE we can connect our local education providers with the businesses that shape Oldham’s economy in a more coordinated and accessible way.
“We’re creating meaningful opportunities for our young people while making it easier for organisations to share their expertise. It’s fantastic to see key employers already embracing the platform, and we’re confident that BREE will strengthen partnerships, support social value, and help nurture the talent our borough needs for the future.”
As the platform launches, the council is encouraging employers of all sizes to register as BREE Employers. Whether businesses can offer workplace visits, mentoring, careers talks, curriculum support or other forms of engagement, every contribution helps equip students with the insights and skills they need to thrive in your sector.
You can sign up here. For any enquiries contact BREE@Oldham.gov.uk
