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Pupils encouraged to aim higher

Posted on 24 January 2011

Pupils from York High School will be urged to develop a "can do" attitude at an inspirational event organised in collaboration with the University of York.

Part of the Green Apples programme, the event on Wednesday, January 26 from 7–9pm is designed to encourage pupils who have no family history of higher education to consider it as an option.

The purpose of the Green Apples programme is to work with students who have the ability to go into higher education, but have no family history of attending

Amy Clow, Widening Participation Officer

Inspirational speaker Richard McCann will explain to lower school students and their parents how he turned his life around, urging them to find the "I can" attitude inside themselves.

Richard reached rock bottom when he came out of prison ten years ago. Now a best-selling author and motivational speaker, he will talk about how he found the strength to turn his life around.   

Year 9 pupils from the school, who have been working with Aimhigher Associates from the University over the last term researching further and higher education, will also present their findings at the event.

The Aimhigher Associates Scheme involves University undergraduate students supporting learners at key points in their education. This enables learners to progress to higher education equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed, even at the most competitive higher education institutions. 

Amy Clow, the University of York's Widening Participation Officer, said: "The purpose of the Green Apples programme is to work with students who have the ability to go into higher education, but have no family history of attending. We aim to demystify higher education, raise awareness of the routes and the variety of provision within further and higher education, increase the self-confidence and self-esteem of students involved, and raise aspirations for lifelong learning."

Gavin Cowley, Deputy Headteacher at York High School, said: "Green Apples really does work in helping pupils see the different future pathways available to them. I have been involved for over a decade now and have had the pleasure of seeing pupils from the programme go on to Oxbridge. This programme does help change futures."

Green Apples is a partnership between York's state secondary schools, 10 primary schools, the University of York, Askham Bryan College, York College, York St John University, Aimhigher York and North Yorkshire, City of York Council, Learning City York, NYBEP and York Young People's Services.

The programme, which started in 1998, involves 500 pupils from Years 9 to 11 and includes activities such as workshops, residential visits and individual information, advice and guidance. Some activities also take place in Years 12 and 13. Around 300 children in Year 6 of primary school are also involved.  

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