Successful sponsorship of CatZero programme

A programme designed to help improve the lives of young people by increasing their self belief, confidence and motivation, getting them ready for the world of work, has been celebrated at a graduation event for its participants to mark their completion.

At the start of May, twelve Year 11 pupils from Archbishop Sentamu Academy were specially selected to take part in a jam packed 12 week programme, coordinated by CatZero and sponsored by Sewell Group.

The young people took part in 34 activities, equating in over 112 engagement hours each, as well as having gained three qualifications throughout the twelve weeks, which has developed their life skills and employability skills. Some of the activities included an overnight sail on the CatZero yacht, camping, rock climbing and boxing. Sewell arranged for the group to try their hands at bricklaying on site before they took park in the official brick laying ceremony, where they laid the first bricks of the build. The young people also developed ‘destination plans’, to help them visualise where they want to get to in life by breaking it down into realistic milestones.

As part of Sewell’s sponsorship, they also provided 12 mentors from the diverse range of business disciplines. The mentors joined the participants on days out and offered advice and guidance for the pupils throughout.

The event saw the group ‘graduating’ from the programme and being recognised for their commitment and personal development over the 12 week programme period. It was attended by their families, as well as their teachers, the team and board from CatZero, HKR Trust and the mentors and board from Sewell Group.

Mark Mulvana, participant on the programme said:

“This programme with CatZero has been brilliant. I’ve really enjoyed all the activities and am really proud of myself for completing my exams. I’m now focussed on what I want to do next, which is getting qualified in cooking. Without CatZero and the team from Sewell I wouldn’t have the determination I now have to do something with my life, they’ve inspired me to be a better person.”

Chris Mulqueen, Head Teacher for the future Aspire Academy said:

“The programme has been a great success due to the efforts of all involved, particularly the young people that have participated, who have completed their exams and achieved great attendance at the activities, which is a reflection of their enjoyment and commitment. This programme would not have been possible without CatZero and the sponsorship provided by Sewell. They have all invested their time and enthusiasm, as well as their experience, advice and important life skills, which has given the young people aspirations, as they are now aware that their efforts now, will be rewarded in the future.”

Jim Dick, Chairman at CatZero said:

“CatZero is growing in strength to strength across the Humber with our range of innovative programmes, which are producing tremendous results. I’m particularly pleased with this programme and the results it has achieved, poignant due to the younger age group that we are working with, helping to prevent them from becoming a NEET. I’m sure they have a positive future to look forward to.

It has been a privilege to yet again work in partnership with Sewell Group. They have always showed tremendous support.”

Paul Sewell, Managing Director at Sewell Group said:

“CatZero gives youngsters the skills, confidence and motivation to develop into successful individuals, a win-win for local people and local businesses. We’ll continue to support this one of a kind organisation.”