STUDENTS from across the district visited a Cross Hills-based chemicals manufacturer as part of a pioneering project.

Pupils from Holy Family School in Keighley, Parkside at Cullingworth and the One in a Million Free School, Bradford, were given tours of the Skipton Road site.

The youngsters were also able to gain hands-on experience in the company’s technical laboratories.

The work placement days were staged during the first-ever Bradford Manufacturing Week, led by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

More than half of Bradford district’s secondary schools were matched with manufacturers, and 3,000 ‘taster experiences’ were created for 14-to-18-year-olds.

The aim was to inspire students and inform them about career opportunities within the district’s manufacturing industry.

The Airedale Chemical tours were led by operations director Daniel Fox and health, safety and environment manager Andrew Ramsey.

“It was great to see so many different students over the week,” said Mr Fox.

“They were all fully engaged, asking different questions and really taking in the various opportunities available within our chemical manufacturing industry.

“We were keen to show them everything, from operations and marketing and sales, to research and development.

“Many of our team have also worked in different areas from their current roles, which was useful for the students to hear. As long as they work hard and are passionate, there is always room for progression and career development.”

Carol O’Connor, work-related co-ordinator at Holy Family, said the students had enjoyed a “brilliant” afternoon at the site.

“It has really opened-up a whole realm of career opportunities for them,” she added.

“It’s easy to focus on getting the grades while at school, but it’s my mission to empower the students with enough knowledge that they can make informed choices after they leave. Initiatives like Bradford Manufacturing Week are helping us do just that.

“I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to the staff at Airedale Chemical, who were all very helpful.

“Our students left with a much clearer understanding of all the different opportunities available within the manufacturing industry. The site visit has certainly dispelled myths around manufacturing.”

Airedale Chemical – a third-generation family-run company – was established in 1973 and serves an extensive range of market sectors, from food and drink manufacturing to water treatment.

It also has several ongoing partnerships with schools and other community organisations.

Pupils from Sutton Community Primary have visited the plant and the firm has donated defibrillators to groups, through its Airedale Foundation social responsibility arm.