During the February half-term, 33 young people, in Year 11 and 12, from across Portsmouth participated in our ‘Portsmouth Inspires’ Programme, funded by NCS. This was an intensive 3-day programme which enabled the young people to connect with their community, develop skills for life and unlock career pathways they might have never imagined. 

Throughout the 3-days the group had the amazing opportunity to experience ‘behind the scenes’ visits to a range of businesses unique to Portsmouth, such as; Victorious Festival, The Southsea Deli, South Coast Cookery and BH Live Active. Alongside the visits the young people also got stuck into various masterclasses to further develop their skills for the future world of work. 

We want to say a huge thank you to the organisations/businesses that supported this programme, the feedback from the young people showed how great it was to gain career insights from real-life experiences!

“It had a variety of new experiences that I never thought about doing and has taught me a lot to help me benefit in my future. It also gave me a lot more confidence to talk to strangers.”

“It’s been great fun! Jess and the other staff members involved have been amazing in providing us the experience of work whilst also maintaining our energy with creative and group activities. I highly recommend this program again!!!”

“It was amazing! I met new friends as Unloc gave me the opportunity to meet new people. Additionally it improved my confidence and social skills. Unloc also showed me many new job opportunities”

“It was practical and different and wasn’t just sitting down whilst people talk to you and you have to write down what they are saying. It was actually interesting and engaging.”

“The best thing about the programme was having the chance to hang out with my friends whilst gaining knowledge on different careers and life skills”