The Future Leaders Programme kicked off with several bangs on Thursday evening last night, with over 300 students attending the first of 24 sessions aimed at developing the skills students need for post-18 pathways.

The night, full of applause and anticipation, began with an enthusiastic introduction to the programme by founder Faheem Khan, the deputy head-teacher of Woodbridge High School, where the event took place. 

Students also heard the inspirational stories of previous students who spoke of the programme with glowing terms and even experienced a poetry performance from Becca Lloyd that was met with wholehearted admiration from the audience and achieved an encore. 

Following this, students were served snacks and took part in a team-building activity of building balloon towers.  As you might expect, this led to wild laughter, healthy competition, a surprising amount of teamwork, and quite a few burst balloons.

Amsika Kandasamy, a student who attended, spoke about her evening: "very hectic, very rowdy, very fun.  You should apply next year!"
Her friend Hana Gardiner also mentioned, "it was fun; I loved talking to new people."

Halima Shakoor, one of the programme managers, spoke of how the porgramme started four years ago with only forty students and how it has grown to around 400 students in total this year.  She said about the programme: "the Future Leaders Programme inspires students to aim for good jobs, high education, and network with people.  Watching them all network (and) work towards their futures has been completely amazing."

Based on the excited buzz of the evening, many students can't wait for the next session and eagerly await the opportunities, support, and enjoyment that the programme has to offer.