Elsie Blundell MP has expanded her Fly High Summer School to 12 young people for 2026, providing work experience and skills sessions to help deprived youth from her constituency.
Personal Experience Drives Initiative
Blundell, who grew up in a deprived area without family guidance, said: "I know what it means to grow up in a deprived area, struggling to shape my future options, without a family network to answer questions or tell me what is possible." She noted that professional families often offer guidance on education and careers, but she lacked that support.
Programme Details
The summer school, named after Heywood's town motto "Alte Volo" meaning "I Fly High," includes a week of briefings, skills sessions, and team building. Participants also receive two days of work experience with local organisations and businesses. The programme concluded with a trip to London to visit Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Downing Street.
Impact and Feedback
Blundell emphasised the importance of showing young people opportunities: "Life today is a big ball of opportunity, but it can help a lot to have someone show you what is out there." Feedback from workplace hosts has been excellent, with many praising the participants. Blundell stated: "We can be very proud of the future generations being raised in our area."
Expanding Opportunities
After last year's success, the programme expanded from a smaller cohort to 12 young people. Blundell aims to recruit passionate, smart young people who might not otherwise access work experience or networking opportunities. She concluded: "Looking after our young people and helping them to stay local is the perfect way to let all our towns fly high!"
