Stansted Airport celebrating 10th anniversary of student mentoring scheme in partnership with Forest Hall School

Stansted Airport is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its successful student mentoring scheme in partnership with Forest Hall School.

The programme, which began in 2012 but was unable to run for two years due to the pandemic, pairs airport staff with Year 11 students from the Stansted secondary to provide guidance and support during their GCSE year.

The mentors, who work in a variety of roles at the airport, offer valuable insights and advice during their exams, but also help students develop important life skills and career aspirations.

This academic year, the mentoring scheme involves 10 airport staff who will visit the school every two weeks to support the students.

The scheme has proven to be hugely successful, with many past participants going on to forge successful careers in the aviation industry.

“We are incredibly proud of the 10th anniversary of our student mentoring scheme with Forest Hall School,” said the airport’s education manager Alex Smith.

“Over the past 10 years we have witnessed countless success stories and it is inspiring to see the positive impact it has had on the lives of both students and airport staff.

“We look forward to continuing this valuable partnership and to witnessing the growth and development of the mentees in the years to come.”

Forest Hall assistant head Kayleigh Trainor said: “Since I started working at Forest Hall School, I have seen the airport mentoring grow from strength to strength.

“The mentors start to build on developing the confidence of our students and the students look forward to their sessions and updating their mentor on the progress they have been making. It has been an invaluable experience for many pupils.”