Careers Inspiration For Every Child

Celebrating Our Community

In August, we brought young people, volunteers, employers and educators together at Newnham College, Cambridge, for our Summer Garden Party and Awards 2026. The event marked the close of our tenth-anniversary celebrations, with six awards recognising the people and organisations helping young people explore their futures.

Among those recognised was Marley Sheridan, our Young Person of the Year. Through our Activate Your Future healthcare programme, Marley completed a two-week placement at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, building his confidence and strengthening his ambition to become a nurse. His story shows why access to practical experience and encouragement matters.

George’s Story

George’s story captures how a single conversation can open a door. After meeting Neil from vehicle repair company Cooper Barnes at a school careers event, George discovered a side of the automotive industry he had never considered.

That encounter led to a work experience placement and, on his final day, an offer to return as an apprentice. He is now developing his skills within a supportive team and hopes to have his own business in the future.

For us, this is what “This is where it starts” looks like in practice. It's a chance to explore an interest, meet someone who sees your potential and take a meaningful next step.

Bringing Careers into the Classroom

Our partnership with Illumina was recognised at our awards with the Innovative Programme of the Year Award for Form the Future Live! Through live-streamed lessons, practical activities and conversations with scientists, the programme brings genomics and careers into classrooms. Removing the need to travel helps make these experiences accessible to schools that might otherwise miss out.

Sharing the Stories Behind the Careers

At our awards, we also launched Career Stories, a new series celebrating the people and experiences behind different career journeys. Through honest accounts of setbacks, changes of direction and unexpected opportunities, the stories remind young people that there is no single route to success and that support and encouragement can make a lasting difference.

Looking Ahead

As a new academic year begins, our purpose remains clear. Helping young people, regardless of background, access the knowledge, confidence and connections they need to thrive.

We’re also looking forward to our Annual Conference in January 2027, continuing the conversation about how we can work together to prepare young people for the changing world of work. We look forward to sharing more details in the coming months.

Thank you to our donors, volunteers, schools and employer partners for supporting this work. Your continued support helps us create more opportunities for young people to discover what is possible and take their next steps with confidence.