Broadening Horizons: What Three Days at Bidwells Can Unlock

Inspire 2 Ignite recently partnered with Bidwells for the third year running to deliver a powerful three-day work experience programme – one that offered young people a rare opportunity to explore the world of property, placemaking, and possibility.

For many of those involved, this was their first experience of a professional environment. 83% were not currently in education or employment. Over half had never taken part in work experience before. Not because they didn’t want to – but because access had always felt out of reach.

This programme was designed to break that pattern – and over three years, it’s grown into something that now delivers real, lasting change.

Building Confidence, Together

The group that arrived on day one was quietly curious, some slightly apprehensive, and unsure of what to expect. By the end of day three, they were energised, inspired, and – most importantly – more confident in themselves and their future direction.

“Every single year I say the same thing,” shared Sian Cox, Talent Acquisition Coordinator from Bidwells. “They’re just different people from start to finish. It’s like we’ve got a whole new group with us now.”

The diversity of experience among the group was key. Participants came from different walks of life and at different stages of their journey, but over the course of the programme, a shared sense of encouragement and belonging emerged. Young people not only embraced the experience themselves – they lifted each other too.

A Window into the World of Work

Each day of the programme offered something new. From rural estate tours to marketing workshops, from creative storytelling challenges to personal career journeys shared by Bidwells leaders – the experience offered depth and variety.

Day One took the group into the world of rural surveying with a visit to Waresley Park Estate, where they explored everything from vineyards to glamping pods. Tom Fussey’s career story of shifting from corporate life to horticulture landed powerfully, reminding the group that not every route is linear.

Day Two focused on residential marketing, where the young people were challenged to produce property tours using TikTok-style content. Working in teams, they captured, edited, and presented their creative takes on homes in Eddington – with some of the content now being published on Bidwells’ official social media channels. The day also included insights into placemaking, with a focus on sustainability and how community spaces are designed.

Day Three brought it all together. Sessions on AI and employability gave participants practical tools, but the real highlight for many was a talk from Nick Pettit, Senior Partner at Bidwells. His honesty, openness, and willingness to share his own challenges made a lasting impact.

“You can tell Nick lives by his values,” one participant said.
“He made me feel like I could be there one day.”

“When Nick spoke, I realised everyone is human,” added another.
“Everyone’s just trying to do their best.”

Measurable Impact. Human Results.

The programme captured data across three key measures:

• Clarity about future careers increased by 50%
• Confidence about entering the world of work rose by 44.3%
• Understanding of local opportunities grew by 41.1%

But the most compelling impact came through the reflections:

“I’ve learned I’m more confident than I thought.”
“I never even knew this kind of company existed before.”
“I’m going home to do more research because I’m excited now.”

“From the Job Centre, to the Moss experience, to Bidwells – this journey has changed everything,” said Elarna.
“If you’re nervous, take the first step. Once you start, you won’t stop until you find where you want to be.”

For young people who’ve faced disruption to their education and obstacles to opportunity, these moments are more than a confidence boost. They are a shift in mindset. They make the future feel not just possible – but exciting.