Swindon students to get glimpse into future with two-day Raising Aspirations event at Steam

Swindon pupils will have the opportunity to attend some educational events at Steam this week, with a focus on their future aspirations.

Chameleon PDE have been commissioned by Swindon Borough Council to run the new and exciting 'Raising Aspirations' project for primary and secondary pupils.

Swindon schools have been invited to an end of year event to support pupil aspiration when moving onto the next stages of education or the working world.

Two events are being held at Steam: one for primary students today - 28 June - and one for secondary students on 29 June.

The primary event, aimed at Year 6 students, will see over 300 pupils taking part in a range of workshops to help build their confidence as they transition to secondary school. 

Some young people are working with Chameleon PDE as part of their work experience, and are taking a leading role in supporting younger children who aspire to make the most of secondary school. All schools signed up to the project will also have free access to PSHE learning resources, for both primary and secondary.

The secondary event, aimed at Year 10 students, focusses on career and further education opportunities in Swindon. There will be a range of exhibitors presenting to students and workshops aimed at building skills, confidence, and aspiration. The event will aim to promote a variety of 'next steps' for students including apprenticeships and vocational routes to open up thinking beyond just university. 

Results from an Oxford University Press survey discovered that children's word of the year 2021 was 'anxiety'. Post-covid, young people are said to be facing a crisis with confidence, motivation, and sense of self.

Experts say this gap with personal identity can result in a lack of aspiration for careers, subject choices, or interest in any extracurricular activities outside of mandatory education.

Angela Milliken from Chameleon PDE said: “The Swindon Raising Aspirations Project aims to encourage pupils at all stages to consider their own interests, skills, and abilities, in the hopes that it will help them to build character and widen their thinking around potential career routes.

“Mental health challenges amongst young people must be addressed to support them with the practical elements of their future. This project includes access to resources which can help young people feel more comfortable with change; this is a hugely important aspect as many young students are daunted by the idea of transitioning to secondary school or the next stages of adulthood.

“Covid has had a huge impact on their social, personal and academic progression. Together, with the PSHE learning resources provided by Chameleon, both primary and secondary schools can play a vital role in raising the ambitions of their students.”

Cllr Oladapo Ibitoye, Swindon Borough Council Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “I’m very excited that these events are taking place this week as it’s a great way to get students interested in what their future might hold.

“Hopefully everyone involved will take full advantage of the help and advice on offer and do what’s right for them.

“Higher education isn’t for everyone, and that’s why it’s also important to highlight what other paths in education or the workforce that are available.”