10 years of supporting students beyond the classroom

London Stansted is celebrating 10 years of its successful mentoring programme, which has been helping students prepare for life after school.

In partnership with Forest Hall School in Stansted Mountfitchet, the airport has supported more than 100 students since the scheme began in 2012*.

The programme gives Year 11 students the confidence, skills and support they need to take their next steps, whether that’s college, an apprenticeship or starting work.

The latest programme started in October and saw 10 airport staff from different teams – including security, project management, compliance and Stansted Airport College – each give up their time to mentor a student in the lead-up to their GCSEs.

Mentors met with students every two weeks to offer advice, encouragement and a friendly space to talk through any worries or future plans.

As well as support with schoolwork, the programme focuses on building important life and career skills, such as setting goals, managing time, preparing for interviews and learning about the world of work.

This year’s programme ended with a celebration event at the airport’s Aerozone education centre on Friday 25 April.

Students were awarded certificates by Kate Folling, People Director at London Stansted, and enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the airfield to learn more about careers in aviation.

Kate Folling, People Director at London Stansted, said:

“Reaching the 10-year mark is a big achievement and something we’re really proud of. This programme helps students grow in confidence and opens doors – we’ve seen many go on to study at Stansted Airport College or even work at the airport. It’s also a great way for our staff to give something back.”

Mollie Fletcher, one of this year’s mentors and the airport’s Employment Outreach Coordinator, said:

“It’s been a great experience. I’ve seen my mentee grow in confidence and explore options they hadn’t thought about before. We had honest chats about challenges and goals, and I’ve learned a lot from them too.”

Year 11 student Henry added:

“Having a mentor from the airport was amazing. I never thought about a career in aviation engineering before, but now I’m seriously thinking about it. The meetings helped me stay on track during exam time, and I’ve picked up skills I’ll use long after school.”

Accompanying the group on their visit to the airport was Tom Cox, Head of Years 9, 10 and 11, who said:

“The Stansted Airport initiative has provided a fantastic opportunity for Forest Hall students, broadening their horizons and inspiring their career ambitions beyond the age of 16. Today’s visit was both highly engaging and eye-opening, giving students a valuable insight into future employment opportunities.”

Forest Hall School has been involved in the scheme since it started and says it’s made a big difference for students.

Headteacher Dustin Schuyler said:

“The mentoring programme gives our students something really valuable – a trusted adult outside of school who listens and helps them plan for the future. It’s boosted confidence and focus, and often helps with schoolwork too.”

*The scheme began in 2012 but was unable to run for two years due to the COVID pandemic.