A total of 652 pupils, aged 11 to 24 from across the Tees Valley, took part in the SEND Enterprise Challenge Week, representing 16 schools and colleges.
The programme aimed to help students build employability skills, explore career options, and grow in confidence through direct engagement with employers.
This year’s theme centred on work experience and preparing for adulthood.
Students were challenged to design their “ideal interview candidate,” considering qualities such as communication, confidence, and presentation.
Winning teams from each school presented their candidates on stage at a celebration event at Billingham Forum Theatre.
Among this year’s winners were Hartlepool College for Most Creative Use of Recycled Materials and Excellent Problem-Solving Skills, Catcote Sixth Form (Most Imaginative Presentation), while Catcote Academy Class 13 was awarded Best Class Scrapbook.
Councillor Lisa Evans, TVCA cabinet member for Education, Employment and Skills said: “This programme is all about giving young people clear, practical support to help them prepare for adulthood and employment. The confidence, creativity and teamwork shown by students this week has been outstanding, and it’s been brilliant to see employers, schools and partners working together to support their development.”
