Harris Purley - Leadership

The programme was designed to help young people recognise their leadership potential, develop essential life skills and build the confidence to take positive steps towards their futures.

It gave students a space to explore what good leadership looks like, understand their individual strengths, and learn how to work effectively with others. Alongside personal development, the sessions introduced conversations about careers, employment and the different pathways available to help young people take their first steps into the world of work.

The programme concluded with a final session celebrating the achievements of the first cohort. Students took part in a group activity, sharing one word they associated with good leadership. Their responses included teamwork, resilience, determination, confidence, communication, integrity, empathy, initiative and encouragement – demonstrating the values and skills they had developed throughout the training.

The session also explored future career aspirations and practical routes into employment. Students discussed a wide range of ambitions, including becoming aestheticians, journalists, child psychotherapists, pilots and aeronautical engineers. They explored different routes into work, from university and graduate opportunities to using personal connections and seeking entry-level roles in retail to gain experience and earn an income.

To put their critical thinking and teamwork skills into practice, students took part in a debate exploring whether artificial intelligence (AI) creates opportunities or poses a threat to young people seeking entry-level employment. Working in two teams, they developed arguments, challenged opposing views and confidently presented their perspectives.

The session ended with students receiving certificates and gift vouchers in recognition of their participation and commitment throughout the programme.

The first cohort demonstrated significant growth in confidence, communication and willingness to participate. Students who may initially have been less vocal became more comfortable expressing their opinions, contributing to discussions and collaborating with peers beyond their usual friendship groups.

They also developed greater clarity around their future ambitions and a better understanding of the different routes into employment. Discussions about entry-level jobs, career pathways and the changing world of work helped connect their aspirations with practical next steps.

One particularly encouraging example was a student who had previously found it challenging to engage in group activities outside his friendship circle. During the final session, he initially appeared withdrawn but was able to regulate his emotions and chose to remain with his group. By the end of the session, he was smiling and proudly posing for a photograph with his certificate. This reflected an important step in his personal development and ability to manage challenging social situations.

The students' final reflections on leadership, their engagement in the debate and their enthusiasm for receiving their certificates provided a positive demonstration of their progress.

Key takeaway: Building confident young leaders, strengthening essential life skills and helping students turn their future ambitions into achievable next steps.