Stepping into the Future
More than 150 Year 7 students descended on Selhurst Park for the Palace for Life Step into the Future event, designed to encourage them to start thinking about their future.
The young people were from Meridian High School and Harris South Norwood and have been part of our Stepping Stones programme, which supports them with the challenging transition from primary to secondary school.
Step into the Future was run in collaboration with our PlayMakers volunteering scheme, which utilises the skills and expertise of Palace fans and the local community, and pupils were treated to four varied workshops lead by different PlayMakers.
Sessions included creating a logo with graphic designer Kevin Martin, writing headlines and capturing the attention of readers by newspaper editor Andrea Perry, an employability workshop led by Emma Bradman, Head of Talent at Prospectus and finally a money management workshop hosted by the Money Charity.
Sue Oakley, Careers Lead at Meridian High School said: “It was really good. As the day went on the young people got into it. Learning about careers and the working world is a bit like a spiral staircase; you’ve got to make sure you’re teaching the young people at different stages of their growth.”
Danai, 11, one of the pupils who attended the day, said: “I learnt that life starts before your career. It’s important to follow your passion because there is a way to find a job that is enjoyable.”
Palace for Life Business Support Officer Zaynab Osman said: “We hope that this event has inspired and opened doors to infinite possibilities for the pupils!”
To become a PlayMaker contact Zaynab Osman at zaynabosman@palaceforlife.org.
Schools must be referred onto the Stepping Stones programme. To find out how to get your school referred, contact George Henry at georgehenry@palaceforlife.org.