The inspirational programme which aims to help young people fulfil their potential and improve their life chances was launched for local school students on Tuesday 19th November, at the Sussex County Cricket Ground.
95 Year 9 students from the 6 secondary schools in Brighton and Hove are taking part in Be the Change, a detailed programme focussing on raising the confidence and aspirations of 13 and 14-year-olds. Over course of the school year the students from Cardinal Newman, Longhill, BACA, Varndean, Patcham High, Blatchington Mill School will come together with business guides on six occasions, including a workplace visit.
A collaboration between us (LoveLocalJobs Foundation and humanutopia); the programme focusses on happiness, confidence, hope, relationships & employability – identifying and removing barriers to success and raising aspirations of students.
The 34 volunteer business guides are provided by sponsors Domestic & General, Brighton and Hove City council, South East Young Apprentice Ambassador Network, Sussex Police, American Express, and The Body Shop.
Business Guide Betty Jordan from American Express said “The Be the Change programme is so well designed, that it manages to engage and also challenge students from the start. There is a real advantage that the students have six touchpoints with their mentors and the programme leads, as it allows for the time and continuity to coach the students to move from step to step. I wish every young person in the UK (and the world) would have the chance to attend this, it should be part of the curriculum!”
Sam Keating, Head of Year 9 at Longhill School said “Wow! What a day – a real rollercoaster of emotions drawn out of the teenagers very cleverly by Graham. One of our quiet, withdrawn students was inspired and given the confidence to speak in front of 200+ people. - an experience we and he will never forget.”
You can find out more about the programme by watching this video. Keep up to date with the Be the Change programme by visiting the website.