In Summer 2024, Patron hosted 20 students for Young Enterprise’s “Learn to Earn” session at Patron’s London office. Young Enterprise, a national charity, empowers young people to succeed in the evolving world of work by providing them with essential skills, knowledge, and confidence.
The students, all from Stoke Newington School, are currently in Year 12 and studying a mix of Business Studies BTEC Level 3 and A-Level Economics. The school was specifically chosen for this opportunity as it serves one of the most deprived areas, according to the Government Indices of Multiple Deprivation. Many students from the school face limited access to opportunities that can help them explore the world of work, raise aspirations, and support successful futures.
The day began with 10 dedicated volunteers from the Patron team sharing personal career insights and discussing Patron’s principles and purpose. Students participated in employability skills workshops, engaging in lively discussions and thought-provoking questions. The highlight was an Apprentice-style challenge where students presented their innovative business ideas to a panel of judges, receiving guidance and encouragement along the way.
It was a privilege to contribute to inspiring the next generation of leaders and to strengthen our valued partnership with Young Enterprise. We are truly grateful to the volunteers who made the day a success and look forward to continuing to support opportunities that empower young people.
Students were asked after the workshop what they would have changed for a better experience. These were their answers:
“I would have asked Keith more questions!”
“Nothing – it was great”
Young Enterprise’s Impact and Engagement:
- Split Between Independent and State Schools: In 2022/23, 91% of the schools and centres the charity worked with were state-funded, while 9% were independent schools.
- Engagement with State Secondary Schools in Disadvantaged Areas: In 2023, Young Enterprise engaged with 32% of all state secondary schools located in areas classified within the 1-4 range of the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) across England and Wales.
- Proportion of Activity in Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) 1-4 Areas: Excluding independent schools, 45% of its overall activity in 2022/23 involved schools situated in IMD 1-4 areas, reflecting its focus on supporting schools in the most disadvantaged communities.
