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2nd November 2023 Celebrations for The Talent Foundry at House of Lords

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Shola speaks to guests about her experiences of transitioning from school to work
  • 45,792 students supported in 2022-23
  • 21 partners delivered 32 programmes

Guests from across UK plc, civil society and education joined The Talent Foundry team at its annual reception to celebrate the achievements of young people in building their skills and confidence.

Last night (1 Nov 2023), partners and volunteers from The Talent Foundry’s 32 employability programmes, heard first-hand from Shola, a former Bridge student who is now studying for degree apprenticeship with Barclays, about her experience in transitioning from school to employment.

She told the audience that prior to joining TTF’s pre-apprenticeship programme she had struggled with her confidence. Feedback about the skills and knowledge she needed to achieve her dream job had always been negative.

Following coaching and skills-development sessions with the TTF facilitation team, Shola was successful in gaining a higher apprenticeship with Barclays, and now says she’s no longer feeling like an imposter.

She has even returned to her former school to volunteer to help young students develop their confidence and life skills.

Thank you to our partners

During the evening, Chair of Trustees, Sir David Bell thanked partners and supporters for their valuable and ongoing commitment to social mobility:

“In the past year, we have proudly supported 45,792 young individuals across England, Wales, and Scotland.

“We've been instrumental in creating ‘lightbulb moments’, encouraging young people to step outside their comfort zones, and fostering connections in various industries, including Engineering, Healthcare, Rail, Finance, Professional services, Technology, and Construction - sectors that are the lifeblood of the UK economy. It's been a record-breaking year.

1,452 volunteers participated in 1,482 workshops, working alongside 21 corporate, public, and voluntary sector partners.

“To all of you here tonight and to our partners, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. This is a true partnership. Your support and funding enable us to offer our opportunities to teachers and schools at no cost to them, effectively removing the barriers that often stifle talent.”

Guest speaker, the Rt Hon Nick Gibb MP also addressed guests and said:

“This country is full of talented people. We just need to make sure everyone has the means to unleash that talent so that it can cascade through our businesses and industries.

“I would like to thank you all for the ground breaking work you are doing to widen career opportunities, especially for those who have not had the same start in life that many young people take for granted. What you are doing is helping to shape a fairer society where everyone’s talent gets a chance to shine.”