STUDENTS across schools run by the The Gateway Learning Community (GLC) have created a programme to help their peers and other local pupils broaden their horizons and raise aspirations.

The project, aptly named 'All Creating Our Future', is led by the Head Students at The GLC schools, who have been nominated by their peers and school leaders to create opportunities that will inspire students across the region to think about their future. 

Initially, programme leaders arranged a Trust-wide student survey to discover what careers students were interested in pursuing in the future. The aim of the survey was to inform additional extra-curricular activities for children and young people that would empower them to explore their interests, develop their talents and gain a better understanding of potential career paths. 

Students from different schools in the Gateway Community worked together.

Using the information from the survey, the student leaders created several initiatives to ensure every young person at their school is given every opportunity to think about the wide range of sectors they could work in. This includes secondary students meeting with local primary pupils to discuss their school experience and inspire them to think about their next stage of education. 

The student leaders are now also looking to partner with local colleges and universities to organise workshops and visits to campuses. 

Students working together

The programme had been created as part of the national '#WeWill' campaign. This is an innovative youth social action project funded by Ormiston Trust and the National Lottery Fund to encourage more young people to take part in social action.

Viki Reid, CEO of The Gateway Learning Community, said: "I am so proud of our students for creating a future project which is ambitious and meaningful and responds to the needs of our students. They have been committed to showcasing the wide range of next steps open to all our students, including apprenticeships, university and high-skilled employment to ensure they are able to find the best path for them.

"Social justice and raising aspirations are leading values for our Trust and we are so thankful to Ormiston Trust for supporting us in creating opportunities for our students to enable them to have a profound impact on their peers and local community." 

James Murray, Chief Executive of the Ormiston Trust, said: "Giving young people a leading role and inspiring them to help others is at the heart of The Ormiston Trust's approach. Through this fantastic project, the student leaders are helping their peers to make informed decisions about their future careers.

"As ever, it is always great to see the immeasurable impact of youth social action, in making a difference to young people and their communities across the country."