West Berkshire & North Hampshire

Students and Vodafone staff celebrated the success of a programme providing a series of self-development mentoring sessions and workshops.

A hundred students from eight West Berkshire secondary schools were presented with certificates at Vodafone HQ, Newbury, for their involvement in the ‘Take a Chance’ programme, which was supported by Vodafone volunteers. Participating schools were The Downs School, John O’Gaunt Community Technology College, Kennet School, Little Heath School, Park House School, St Bartholomew’s School, Theale Green Community School and Trinity School and Performing Arts College.

Now in its fifth year, the programme has provided opportunities for 250 students, aged between 14-16 years, to develop their life skills and self confidence. The Education Business Partnership West Berkshire organised the programme and has received support from over 200 Vodafone volunteers since it began.

‘Take a Chance’ Programme Manager Helen Roy commented “It’s wonderful that Vodafone’s ongoing commitment has so far enabled us to invite 700 young people to benefit from the annual Enterprise Skills Day with the chance to be involved in the full programme.”

The Vodafone Foundation has now confirmed future funding for the ‘Take a Chance’ programme, enabling a further 250 students to participate in the annual Enterprise Skills Day over the next two years.

Helen added “We are delighted that the Vodafone Foundation’s continuing generous support which will enable us to offer the unique ‘Take a Chance’ experience to more students.”