Raising Aspirations

Whatever your background, don’t hold yourself back.

We can’t control all the things which life throws at us but we can and should act to try and become the best we can be. In the words of Gordon Brown,

“... what counts is not where you come from but what you aspire to become, not who you know but what you know. And it is a Britain where everyone, no matter what their background, should be able to rise as far as their talents can take them, where everyone can make the most of the potential they have” –Gordon Brown, UK Prime Minister.

What does it mean to aspire?

Aspiration is being able to decide on and set goals for the future, but also working towards those goals right now. It involves having a determination and a strong sense of wanting to achieve.

What does it mean to aspire?

It is a fact of life that we can’t all be famous or win the lottery. But there is stuff we want to get out of life. You may want a good car-a nice house,

Want a Good Job?

A decent job demands decent skills. There is in increasing competition for jobs and without qualifications or vocational training behind you, there is a chance that you will end up as just another statistic – one of the 7% of young people in Southend who aren’t in work or getting trained*

If you want to earn, learning can make the difference. A good attitude and high aspirations are also important.

Many ways to make it.

DON’T think you can’t make it because you worked hard and didn’t do well in school. GCSE’s are not for everyone – vocational qualifications are also a
good alternative. They let you learn practical skills which help you directly into the world of work. Whatever you enjoy or are good at, there is always a way to get qualified. Never give up trying. Where there is a will there is a way.

Interested in Vocational Training?

There are many opportunities to train in what really interests you. Follow the link below and get more information on vocational training ideas and
opportunities.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/QualificationsExplained/DG_10039020

Planning of going onto Higher Education?

Those who are interested in staying on in school and going into higher education have a lot of options. There are current opportunities to get a
better understanding of where you are heading. The link below will give you a some idea of what you can do to get a feel of what it is all about.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/DG_073697

What else can make difference?

It is important to recognise that aspiration is not equal to good grades or motivation alone,  it also includes your community, artistic and political
aspirations.  Being ‘well-rounded’ and a good potential employee is about more than just education and technical skills.

* “School Leavers Urged to Reconsider Their Options”, LSC press release 30/08/06

For more information about Raising Aspirations, please contact, Josie
O’Brien or Robert Gonouya on 01268 752 368