What is the Youth Leadership Programme?
In the summer, we have built a strong YDL Work and Education Programme to underpin the success of the (HAF) Holiday Club initiative. Our youth playworkers and leaders (aged 12-to 19 -SEND to 25) gain an invaluable insight to the world of work. They support primary-school aged SEND children, whilst making friends and earning pocket money. This is our biggest annual YDL initiative, where youth volunteers and paid workers, gain valuable work experience, exposure to inspirational employability and life skills workshops, trips to cultural spaces and innovative businesses for invaluable hands-on experiences.
Why leadership is important to youths?
Building Confidence
Communication Skills
Career Advancement
Sense of Responsibility
Problem-Solving Skills
Networking
Odd Girls In
The 'Odd Girls In' initiative supports up to 25 neurodivergent, care-experienced, or socially anxious young women. Through a social-therapy club, we provide a safe, non-judgmental space to connect, build confidence, and explore new opportunities.
Young women have enjoyed enriching experiences such as, the Sky Up film writing, acting. directing and producing experience; a trip to Kings Cross, Everyman Canal for an outdoor cinema experience; and a series of inspiring creative, art-based workshops and 1-2-1 therapeutic mentors. Feedback showed that these young adults felt more optimistic about their futures, valued the practical tools for personal growth. They appreciated the inclusive environment where they could freely express themselves. Workshop guest-led sessions and trips broadened horizons, sparking new ambitions and friendships.
Careers Support
Reach Society FREE Careers Conferences
Since April 2019, Mrs Bryson, has been arranging for a large number of Year 9,-11students, to visit the annual Careers Conference organised by the Reach Society. The group is run by leading BAME male and female professionals and entrepreneurs who provide guidance and opportunity for students to grow and prepare for their future careers.
Exhibitors have included: Alpha BSE Training, Brunel, HS2 & The RAF Supporters: Deloitte, Durham University, Glasgow University, HarperCollins, HS2, Jesus College Oxford, Kilburn & Strode LLP, Met Police, Network Rail, Open University, Zurich Insurance, Amos Bursary, Cowrie Scholarship Foundation, RAFFA.
Keynote Career Talks
This is the way we do education. We are aspirational for our young people and seek to make connections with role models that have a heart for our children and the work we do in the community. Here are some of the professionals who have partnered with us, to help inspire and prepare our children for a range of career field:
Georgia Wilson
Executive CFO/COO at global pharmaceutical Branding Science Group
Lee Townsend
Social Influencer from the LB of Croydon - My Superpower: ADHD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia!
Lara Jonah
Registered and Chartered Forensic Psychologist
Roy Francis
Ex-BBC producer, Historian & author of: ‘Windrush: 7 Events that Changed Britain; How to Make Gospel Music Work For You’.
Nicole Mason
Team leader – Civil service
Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
Coming Soon
More inspirational talks and presentations will be coming soon.
Raising Hope: Strenghtening The Next Generation Of Leaders
This initiative sought to unlock the leadership potential within a group of disengaged KS4 students. These previously unmotivated Croydon students found inspiration and renewed purpose through a weekly Saturday program during the summer term. As a culmination of their efforts, all participants were invited to a prestigious networking event featuring inspirational speakers and the opportunity to meet industry leaders. This event was part of The Aleto Foundation’s National Leadership Programme for graduates, held at BT’s headquarters in Central London.
