Ambitious Future Leaders hailed at University graduation ceremony

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Ambitious sixth form students from Telford have seen their achievements recognised at a dedicated graduation ceremony at Harper Adams University.

The ceremony marked the students’ completion of a programme run by Future Leaders UK - a nationally recognised social mobility organisation which gives 16 to 18-year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds the tools they need to succeed.

Delivered in collaboration with Harper Adams, its participating students received leadership training, mentorship, and access to work experience at the University’s sites in both Edgmond and Telford, as well as meeting with experts from Shropshire’s leading firms to draw upon their insight.

The programme is tailored to boost students’ skills and confidence – instilling in them a belief they can be the leaders of the future.

University Vice-Chancellor Professor Ken Sloan and Telford MP Shaun Davies both addressed the graduation ceremony. Each shared how their lives had been changed through the support of mentors in their community - and underlined how the guidance offered through the Future Leaders programme is for inspiring the next generation.

Speaking after the ceremony, Professor Sloan said: “As Shropshire and Telford’s University, it is only right we champion young people in the region - and show them their potential is recognised.

“When I saw the work Future Leaders was doing in major cities such as London and Manchester, I knew we had to make the case for a Telford programme to be introduced - and for Harper Adams to partner with Future Leaders to make it a success.

“That’s why this year’s graduation ceremony was so important – and I was delighted to mark the day with the students, each of whom should be very proud of their achievements.”

Shaun Davies MP said “It was a real privilege to celebrate the achievements of these inspiring Telford young people. The Future Leaders programme is helping to build confidence and give young people the skills to succeed in whatever path they choose.

 “As Dawley’s Captain Matthew Webb once said, ‘Nothing great is easy’ and I think those words are just as true today. Leadership isn't simply about having good ideas, it's about turning those ideas into action and stepping forward when others step back.

“These young people represent the ambition and determination that makes me so optimistic about Telford's future – I can’t wait to see what they achieve next. A special thank you to Harper Adams University and everyone involved in delivering the scheme.”

Once the ceremony was complete, the cohort joined prospective students from across the Uk and Ireland as guests at the Harper Adams Experience, a two-day residential programme.

Designed for 16–18-year-olds, the event offered social and course activities, meals, and a night in halls to give participants a deeper understanding of what studying at the University is like.

This year’s Future Leaders cohort now join thousands of young people from across the UK who have completed a Future Leaders programme.

Faheem Khan, Founder and CEO of Future Leaders UK, said: “This programme is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared ambition to invest in young people.

“We are incredibly thankful to Harper Adams University for making this opportunity possible and for believing in the potential of Telford’s young people from the outset. I would also like to thank Shaun Davies MP, whose continued encouragement and support have helped turn this vision into reality.

“Together, we are opening doors that simply would not have existed otherwise, and giving young people the confidence, networks and opportunities to build the futures they deserve.”