Thirty-one young people from Anglesey celebrated on 7 February 2018 after graduating from an inspirational leadership and employability scheme organised by the Jon Egging Trust in partnership with RAF Valley and industry partners.
The 13-16-year-old Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi students – all of whom are either in care, caring for someone else or suffering from serious trauma – were all helped to understand their potential through a five-month programme of inspirational events, including adventurous training in Snowdonia and communication skills training with RAF air traffic controllers. The students also underwent employability exercises with industry partners Horizon Nuclear, BAE Systems, Eagle House and Ascent. Their graduation ceremony was attended by the RAF’s Deputy Commander (Operations), Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Atha.
The Jon Egging Trust – set up in memory of Red Arrows pilot Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging – delivers two youth programmes in seven regions of the UK. Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi’s students completed the Blue Skies skills development scheme and were among 228 young people to graduate from the scheme over the last academic year. The Trust also offers Inspirational Outreach, which puts young people in contact with inspirational mentors including the Red Arrows, serving personnel and veterans.
Dr Emma Egging, CEO of the Jon Egging Trust, said:
“We give young people a vital sense of possibility and purpose, helping them to grow in confidence and self-esteem. Everyone deserves the chance to be the best they can be, and I am so proud to see how positively these students have responded when given that chance.”
Group Captain Nick Tucker-Lowe, RAF Valley’s Station Commander, said:
“RAF Valley is proud to work with the Jon Egging Trust by providing the resources to support young people within the community. Each and every one of the students has become a role model for others.”