In June 2025, students from Energy Coast UTC and West Coast Sixth Form took part in a week-long ProjX Work Awareness Programme, delivered by the Centre for Leadership Performance.
Their challenge was to create a professional marketing brochure to promote the soon-to-be-completed Workington Innovation Centre, including ideas for events that could support local entrepreneurship and community engagement.
About the Workington Innovation Centre
Currently under construction on Central Way in Workington town centre, the Innovation Centre is set to become a modern, purpose-built space for offices and workshops. The goal is to make the Centre a vibrant hub for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, helping local businesses grow and thrive.
Designed to attract innovative companies and a highly skilled workforce, the Centre will also run a tailored programme of support for entrepreneurs, making it much more than just a building. It’s a place to collaborate, grow ideas, and turn ambition into impact.
Student Ideas
Working in teams, students dived into research, looking at similar innovation centres across the UK, exploring what Workington’s community needs, and considering how the Centre could reflect the town’s character and future aspirations.
Their proposals included:
And of course, they designed their own professional brochures to bring it all together.
Presenting to Professionals
At the end of the week, students presented their work to a panel of professionals, explaining their concepts with confidence and clarity. It was a fantastic opportunity to develop real-world presentation skills and receive meaningful feedback.
Student Reflections
As well as creating brilliant ideas, the students gained valuable experience in teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving. Many said the week helped them feel more prepared for life after school and gave them a better understanding of careers in design, business, and marketing.
Supported by Local Volunteers
This ProjX week was made possible thanks to the support of a fantastic group of local professionals who volunteered their time to mentor the students. Their guidance and encouragement played a huge part in the success of the week.
Want to Get Involved?
Currently, the ProjX programme is funded for schools in West Cumbria through Sellafield Ltd SiX (Social Impact Multiplied). To sustain and expand the impact of ProjX, we are looking for organisations to fund additional weeks and professionals to volunteer an hour of their time to guide students through their projects.
If you’d like to support the next generation of problem-solvers and leaders, please get in touch at nicola.woolley@cforlp.org.uk.
