Connecting classrooms with careers across the Tees Valley.

About Us

High Tide is an independent charity based in Teesside committed to improving opportunities for young people aged 11-16. Through real-life work experiences and life-changing programmes, we open up a world of opportunities and show our region’s young people that anything really is possible, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Focused solely on Tees Valley, we’re on a mission to raise aspirations, unlock potential, change perceptions, break down barriers and create meaningful connections between students and local employers.

With over 12 years of proven success, we partner with local schools and businesses to deliver life-changing, industry-led programmes that showcase career opportunities and provide real-world work experiences.

For businesses, schools, and other stakeholders, we are a catalyst for change. Through our unique industry-led approach to connecting employers and schools, we create the opportunity for everyone to play their part in shaping the future of our region.

Who we work with

11-16 Year Old in Tees Valley – Young people aged 11-16 who are in need of opportunity and looking for inspiration. They are unlikely to have been exposed to real-world work experience before and may lack the guidance, connections or understanding needed to take the next step. But we show them that anything is possible right here in Tees Valley.

Businesses in Tees Valley – We are also here for businesses in Tees Valley that are looking to address skills gaps and build the workforce of the future. Facing recruitment challenges and corporate social responsibility commitments, activities can be siloed, and some often find it difficult to connect with the next generation of talent. By bringing industry and education closer together, we are collectively shaping a better, more inclusive, more accessible career landscape.

Secondary Schools in Tees Valley – We connect to young people via their schools, which are looking to improve opportunities for their students. Students can struggle to find engaging, meaningful, and varied real-world career experiences. Through tailored programmes, we connect schools to local businesses, helping them support young people in reaching their full potential.

If you are a school looking for support with your career activities or a business wanting to help inspire the next generation, we’d love to get you involved.


Upcoming Programmes

View All Programmes

3850

days spent connecting young people with businesses through immersive virtual placements and inspiring workplace experiences.

6500

young people engaged with and supported to increase awareness, improve skills, build confidence and raise aspirations.

150

businesses of all sectors and sizes, helping to showcase opportunities and shape the workforce of tomorrow.


"I thought it was an excellent placement, which has taught me vital things and it has given me an idea of what I would like to do in the future."

Age 15, 3-day VWEX (Finance)

"It was very informative and was definitely worth every minute. The speakers and staff were very kind and helped us all build a better understanding of the world of engineering. This was an insight I doubt I could have gotten anywhere else."

Age 15, Insight day (Engineering)

"It was very informative and made me feel confident about what kind of sector of engineering I want to get into"

Age 14, Insight day (Engineering)

"An amazing experience!"

Age 14, Insight day (Law)

"Start to finish there was loads of enthusiasm from the employees and the students! Really fun to be a part of this!"

Age 17, 5-day VWEX (Engineering)

"I enjoyed the work experience, I learnt new skills on how to write my CV and what employers look for."

Age 13, Discovery day (Employability)


Access for all

Our programmes are open to schools and colleges across the Tees Valley, and delivered by businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Free of charge

It’s simple to get involved and easy to organise. Our initiatives are delivered completely free of charge to schools and colleges.

Fully Supported

For businesses, it’s straight-forward to support. We’ll plan and deliver sessions; all we need is your time, passion and commitment.

Our Corporate Partners

Active
Casper Shipping
Jacksons Law Firm
PD Ports