1 out of 3 UK employers regard essential skills (sometimes called “soft skills”) as more important than academic achievements. 2 out of 3 employers reject young candidates because they can’t articulate their skills.
Organisations across Leeds are exploring how digital badges can help tackle these challenges—by recognising, celebrating, and tracking skills development. Digital badges provide people with clear pathways and a verifiable way to demonstrate and share what they know and can do.
This session offers practical insights, thought-provoking conversations, short lightning talks from local partners Leeds Health and Care Partnership and Left Bank Leeds, and of course, coffee and donuts.
WorkSkills: Work Experience Badges
Created by careers experts from the Leeds Learning Alliance, these badges recognise young people who complete work experience. They also support staff in preparing students for placements and celebrate the employers who provide those valuable opportunities.
These badges don’t just mark participation—they evidence preparation, engagement, and reflection, giving employers real insight into a learner’s growth, while also providing valuable analytics on how the badge is being used and shared.
Volunteer: Team Leeds
Developed in partnership with Leeds City Council, the University of Leeds, and Voluntary Action Leeds, this suite of badges celebrates volunteers, trainers, and leaders who champion valuable volunteering across the city.
Both programmes are fully funded by Leeds City Council, simple to use, and offer one-click verification and sharing. They’re ideal for CVs, LinkedIn profiles, and organisational recognition.Who should attend?This event is especially for:
- Careers leaders and coordinators in schools, colleges, and universities who want to strengthen how they prepare and recognise students.
- Volunteer managers in charities and community organisations who are looking for simple ways to celebrate and evidence contributions.
- Employers who host work experience, manage volunteering programmes, or want to recognise staff CPD.
Join us at the Carr Manor Community Hub (access via Stainbeck Lane), grab a coffee and donut, and discover how digital badges can transform the way you recognise and celebrate learning in Leeds.
Spaces are limited—reserve your place today.
