Educational support continues to help pupils in Derbyshire reach potential

The 'Raising Aspirations' programme has been extended for a further two years.

‘Raising Aspirations’ is delivered by Derbyshire Education Business Partnership (DEBP) and supports young people from years six to 13 who face multiple barriers in education.

A new contract will be managed by Bolsover Partnership on behalf of Derbyshire County Council for a further two academic years.

The programme provides intensive support to address the needs of each individual student so they can reach their full potential.

An employability worker supports each learner and small groups of learners to identify interests, goals and experiences that will help them to raise their aspirations.

Since 2015 the programme has reached in excess of 7,500 learners, with all year 11 targeted participants moving on to positive Post-16 destinations in education, employment and training.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for health and communities Carol Hart, said: “The Raising Aspirations programme has been a big success and we’re delighted Derbyshire school children will benefit from the programme for a further two academic years.

“It’s important that every child in Derbyshire has the opportunity to develop resilience, confidence and motivation to successfully move into the next phase of their life.

“The programme encourages these skills amongst young people who might need a bit more help in achieving what they’re fully capable of.”

Claire Talati, managing director of DEBP, said: “The initiative has never had a one size fits all approach, it remains consistent in its aims and objectives, but is delivered in a vibrant, responsive and bespoke way, recognising the unique needs of the children, young people, schools and communities at its centre.

“A core element of the initiative is putting the taught curriculum into context and our amazing network of employer volunteers provide meaningful encounters and world of work experiences that assist young people to identify their skills and goals, motivating them to engage more fully with education so that they too can have a successful future.”