New mentoring scheme helps Harlow youngsters build confidence and prepare for work
Young people in Harlow who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET) are being given extra support to boost their confidence and improve their chances of finding work through a new mentoring programme launched by London Stansted Airport.
The NEETs Mentoring Circle, run by the airport's Stansted Airport Academy in partnership with Harlow Jobcentre Plus, is a three-month pilot scheme aimed at helping around 30 young people develop employability skills and explore future career opportunities.
The first session brought together 12 young people from Harlow. Participants took part in mentoring sessions, skills workshops and employer-led activities designed to build confidence, raise aspirations and improve job prospects.
They also received practical support with CV writing, cover letters and interview preparation, while learning about the wide range of careers available at the airport. London Stansted is the largest single-site employer in the East of England, supporting thousands of jobs across hundreds of businesses.
Through its Stansted Airport Academy, the airport works with schools, colleges, job centres and local authorities to help people access training and employment opportunities.
Jennie Crossling, Senior Education and Employment Manager at London Stansted, said:
"Many of the young people attending the programme arrived with low confidence and limited awareness of the opportunities available to them. By the end of the session, around 80 per cent rated their confidence at seven or eight out of 10.
"Our aim is to show them that there are exciting careers available right on their doorstep and to give them the confidence, skills and support they need to take those next steps.
"The response from the first group has been really encouraging and we're looking forward to seeing how participants progress over the coming months."
Cheryl Crane, Operations Leader at the Department for Work and Pensions, said:
"It was great to sit in and observe the first part of the session. Stansted staff engaged exceptionally well with the young people through open, interactive questions, creating a welcoming and supportive environment.
"I was also really pleased to see such an excellent turnout, with 12 young people attending. Hopefully, they will take the next step and make contact with Stansted to access the ongoing support available and help kick-start their careers within the airport and aviation sector.”
Emma Middleton, Work Coach at the Department for Work and Pensions, said:
"The session was engaging from start to finish, with learners actively participating and responding throughout. The practical advice on CVs and cover letters was invaluable, and the personalised support during breakout sessions helped individuals grow in confidence.
"The feedback from claimants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying they learned a lot and really enjoyed the experience."
The programme forms part of the airport's wider commitment to supporting local communities and helping create pathways into employment and aims to support 25,000 young people through its education and skills programmes by 2030.