The transition from school to the labour market is not always easy for all young people. A lack of career guidance, limited networking opportunities, and social inequalities often create barriers that affect their future choices. With the aim of bridging this gap, the Innov’Avenir programme in France offers an innovative career discovery experience, bringing students into direct contact with the corporate world.
The programme operates across major urban areas in France and is based on collaboration with member companies that host cross-company internship schemes for young people who are required to complete mandatory internships but have not yet developed a clear direction for their future careers.
Over the course of one week, participants visit a different company each day, gaining first-hand insight into a variety of industries and professional roles. This approach enables them to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the labour market and to discover their interests and skills through real-life experiences.
Particular emphasis is placed on experiential learning and interaction with employees from diverse professional backgrounds. Even when similar fields are explored—such as Human Resources—each workshop is designed to offer a different perspective and experience, highlighting the richness of career paths available in today’s labour market.
The benefits are twofold. Young people gain valuable knowledge and confidence in their future choices, while employees have the opportunity to act as role models and mentors for the next generation. At the same time, their participation is easy to manage, as the activities are integrated into their daily work routine without requiring significant time away from their responsibilities.
Beyond company visits, Innov’Avenir also extends its activities into classrooms. Employees, after receiving appropriate training, visit schools and share their professional experiences with students, contributing to enhanced career awareness and greater social mobility.
Each year, through both its off-site and in-school activities, the programme reaches between 8,000 and 10,000 young people, demonstrating that collaboration between education and business can serve as a powerful tool for promoting equal opportunities, inclusion, and social cohesion.
