YPSA Future Leaders

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The YPSA Future Leaders programme offers those in our Young People’s Supported Accommodation Services (YPSA) scheme a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills for future employment and learn about leadership and team skills.

Designed specifically for young people between the ages of 18 and 25 residing in supported housing, the Future Leaders programme offers the chance to earn a series of AQA Unit Awards in Leadership or a Level 2 Award in Leadership & Team Skills, accredited by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).

The programme aims to enhance the participants’ confidence and leadership abilities, comprising workshop sessions, work experience with Lucy Group and a residential trip to Devon.

“Every young adult deserves people who believe in them, chances to grow, and the confidence to shape a future they’re proud of because leadership starts with showing up, learning and believing you can.” – Emmy O’Shaughnessy – Director of Innovation & Growth/ Deputy CEO

Our Partnership with Lucy Group

With our five-year strategy at Oxfordshire Youth, we aim to tackle the lack of provision of equitable spaces for young people who feel unheard, overlooked and disengaged. Lucy Group have extended their support to a four-year engagement. This will enable the Future Leaders programme to run annually and provide numerous real-world experiences, including CV workshops, interview techniques, a focus on soft skills, and on-site work experience at Lucy Electric in Thame – all delivered by a range of Lucy employees who are passionate about opening up the world of work to these young people.

“Future Leadership isn’t just about skills; it’s about showing young people that they matter, that they belong and that their potential has no limits.” – Matt Bryant, Talent and Development Partner

Discover the 2024 YPSA Future Leaders Impact Report

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What the YPSA Future Leaders Programme involves

- Two Employability Workshops with Matt and other Lucy Group staff – These workshops will help with interview skills, CV writing, learning about soft skills and teamwork.

- A series of sessions on Leadership and Team Skills with Hayley and other Oxfordshire Youth Staff will cover different topics around leadership: Demonstrating Leadership Skills, Communication, Team Building, Time Management and Prioritisation, Managing Stress, Relationships within Different Environments, Goal Setting, Receiving and Giving Feedback.

- Work Experience Opportunity – At Lucy Electric with Matt and the team, supported by Oxfordshire Youth Staff. Experience different departments at Lucy Electric to learn more about the business and the different roles.

- 4-day Residential Experience – At an outdoor centre in Devon, providing the opportunity to put their leadership and team skills into practice, taking part in activities including: high ropes, archery, coasteering, water sports, and climbing wall.

- Final Celebration! – To receive AQA certificates and celebrate everyone’s achievements on the programme.