Teens inspired to exam success thanks to scheme

AN EDUCATIONAL scheme aimed at inspiring troubled teens to reengage in learning has highlighted its latest successes.

The Year 11 students on North Warwickshire and Hinckley College’s Inspire Programme are celebrating after receiving their results with a 87% pass rate for GCSE English and 100% of students progressing to further education, training or employment.

The initiative is specially designed to remotivate Year 10 and 11 students who are at risk or have been excluded from mainstream school.

It combines practical, vocational qualifications with English, maths and science to ensure each young person is prepared and qualified to progress to further education, training or employment.

As part of the course, students spend between one and five days per week at the college and the rest of their time at their school.

Chris Harvey, 16, took part in the programme and is now completing an apprenticeship with construction giant Carillion.

He said: “I have enjoyed my time at Inspire. With the help of staff it has shown me that you’re able to study and work. I have managed to successfully get an apprenticeship with the help of staff which also pays me to learn on the job.”

Lisa Capper, executive director of schools at North Warwickshire and Hinckley College, said: “Congratulations to all those who have received their results. The Inspire programme aims to help young people to recognise their potential and it has been a privilege to be part of their journey. We look forward to seeing them progress to further education and full-time employment and wish them all the best for their future careers.”

The college’s Career Step Programme for 14 to 16-year-olds has also seen some exceptional results.

The youngsters study one day a week or on a part-time basis at the college towards a vocational subject of their choice including engineering, motor vehicle studies and performing arts - all offered from Hinckley campuses.

This year has seen 100% of students achieving Distinctions and Merits in performing arts, engineering, motor vehicle and hair and beauty.