Students from Forest Hall School were treated to a behind-the-scenes look at London Stansted as they celebrated the completion of a mentoring scheme now in its 11th year.
Year 11 pupils who took part in the programme were invited to the airport for a special event, which included a lunch, the presentation of certificates and a guided tour of areas of the airport usually off limits to the public.
The mentoring partnership pairs pupils with airport staff from a range of departments including engineering, the fire service, operations, construction and communications.
Throughout the school year, mentors meet regularly with pupils to offer advice and support as they prepare for their GCSEs and consider future career options.
Careers Lead Callie Dennis said:
“The mentoring programme has continued to evolve, offering our students opportunities that really bring the world of work to life. By matching pupils with experienced professionals, we’re able to give them tailored guidance that sparks new interests and supports their ambitions.”
Assistant Headteacher Kayleigh Trainor said:
“Speaking with mentors has helped students build confidence when talking to adults and opened their minds to the many pathways their careers could take. It’s been an invaluable experience for so many of our learners.”
Nine members of staff from the airport took part as mentors this year, continuing a long‑standing commitment by the airport to support local young people.
The scheme forms part of the airport’s wider commitment to social sustainability, helping to widen access to career opportunities and support young people from the local community to achieve their potential.
Alex Smith, Education Manager at London Stansted, said:
“By pairing students with colleagues from across the airport, we help them build confidence, develop essential skills and explore future careers. Supporting young people through initiatives like this is a key part of our approach to social sustainability, and it was great to welcome them to the airport to celebrate completing the scheme and to give them a real insight into how the airport operates.”
