Our work supporting young people to reach their potential takes place everywhere and our Delivery team has piloted a new programme at Queen Mary University of London.
Our programme, for students from less advantaged socio-economic backgrounds (LSEB), has seen 21 students complete a series of soft skills workshops and business development masterclasses and visits. Over eight weeks, the programme gave students something many had lost: a genuine sense of belonging, belief in their own potential, and the confidence to imagine futures they felt were out of reach.
Students in higher education from LSEB are more likely due to drop out of study due to non-course related issues such as their responsibilities as carers, becoming overwhelmed by their part-time work, imposter syndrome or financial issues.
Working with the university, our Delivery team developed the short, sharp and interactive programme to spark engagement, strengthen attainment and equip students with the insight, confidence and practical skills to thrive at university, in their personal lives and their future careers.
Students from courses including creative writing, international relations, business management, economics, finance, history and law took part in four workshops, two masterclasses, and two business insight visits.
Remarkably, all students who gave feedback reported that they developed a more positive and resilient mindset while most said they feel more confident engaging with university life. These aren’t just statistics; these numbers represent real, lasting change in how students see themselves and what they believe is possible.
One student commented: “I gained a better understanding of how to be more confident when exploring different career opportunities. I learned the importance of staying open-minded, recognising that a degree can lead to many different paths, and not being afraid to pursue new opportunities when they come your way.”
Another student added: “There were many sessions where I was able to identify new things about myself. Especially the imposter syndrome workshop that allowed me to better align how I work to understand where I could end up in future.”
We want to celebrate the students who showed real commitment—bringing energy, focus, and determination to the programme, and using every opportunity they were given to invest in their own future.
Students discuss the programme with colleagues from Making The Leap
And thank you to the following individuals and organisations that volunteered their time and hosted our sessions, helping the programme happen.
Organisations:
- GIC
- London Town Group
Volunteers:
- Dom Scott, Making The Leap Trustee
- Danielle Ashford-Quaye, Knight Frank
- Tasneem Oubira, Making The Leap Alumni Board
If you’re interested in working with Making The Leap on a bespoke university programme, tailored to your objectives please contact Engagement@mtl.org.uk.
