CorrBoard UK, a leading corrugated sheet manufacturer based in Scunthorpe, may work behind the scenes, but their contribution to everyday life is essential. From Amazon parcels to cinema billboards and bicycles, their cardboard protects the things people care about. And while their product may seem simple, the process is powered by robotics, innovation and a team who take pride in what they do, alongside a commitment to giving back to their local community.
One way they do this? Through meaningful workplace experiences.
CorrBoard UK opens its doors to local schools and educators to help raise awareness of careers in manufacturing, a sector that’s often overlooked. By offering factory tours and teacher site visits, they help bridge the gap between classrooms and careers, sparking curiosity where it matters most in young people.
They also take part in initiatives like Give an Hour, where team members volunteer their time to speak in schools about their career paths and experiences. These relatable, real-life stories show students what’s possible and help them picture themselves in similar roles. The company also hosts apprentices, primarily in their engineering and IT teams, giving young people hands-on learning opportunities in a modern manufacturing environment. Early exposure like this helps reframe perceptions, showing that manufacturing today is high-tech, rewarding, and full of opportunity.
While CorrBoard UK is a relatively small business with around 95 employees, they take a big-picture approach when it comes to community engagement. Katie Woodward, Head of Operations, says the company runs its outreach activities on a voluntary basis, encouraging employees from all levels (not just leadership) to get involved. Many are passionate about promoting STEM careers and nurturing homegrown talent.
“It doesn’t need to be management,” Katie explains. “Just offer it out to everyone. The smaller businesses often want to make a bigger impact locally, and we do.”
Katie commented that CorrBoard UK’s involvement isn’t driven by recruitment goals, but by a genuine desire to give back. “It’s part of our wellbeing and volunteering strategy,” she says. “The business benefit? It’s about community connection and creating opportunities for young people.”
That said, sharing real-life career stories and pathways has real value. As Katie explains: “The route to leadership isn’t always as it’s advertised. It’s not always linear, and it’s important young people hear that. Sometimes, it’s the lessons you learn along the way, through experience, challenges, and growth, that shape your journey the most.”
Time can be a barrier for smaller businesses, but CorrBoard UK has found a sustainable model. They tap into the Careers Hub to help identify local schools in need of support and then share opportunities across the team.
Katie’s advice to others? “Start small. Get everyone involved. It’s not difficult, and it really matters.”
CorrBoard UK shows that you don’t need to be a large corporation to make a difference. Whether it’s a factory tour or a 30-minute school talk, these experiences help young people see what’s out there and what’s possible. They challenge assumptions and build confidence.
“Would I recommend it?” Katie says. “Absolutely. It’s a small effort with a big impact.”
Inspired to open your doors to the next generation? Learn how your business can offer experiences of the workplace here.
