LONDON, 8 March 2010 – Williams Lea is delighted to have won The Learning Trust Business Partnership Award for its mentoring programme at Stormont House School, Hackney. This was announced at the Learning Trust Educators’ Awards ceremony for 2010 which was held in London on 1 March. The awards recognise educators and supporters of education in Hackney who have made a significant contribution towards transforming education services in the London borough.
The award was in recognition of the pupil mentoring programme run by Williams Lea. Now in its 13th year, this provides a forum for 14 and 15 year old school pupils in Year 10 to spend time with members of the Williams Lea team as part of a structured programme. The individual attention shown to students by their mentors helps them identify and acquire the right attitude, practical skills and knowledge to help their transition from school to either further education or employment.

“Through the mentoring sessions, pupils are given support, advice and the experience of interacting with people from the business world. This is a highly valuable experience which enhances learning and builds confidence,” said Beryl Grosvenor, Deputy Head teacher at Stormont House School. “However, the mentors give more than just advice and support. As a special needs school, our pupils are often misunderstood and denied opportunities which are afforded to their mainstream counterparts. The mentoring programme goes a long way to address this imbalance and provides challenges and experiences which would otherwise be denied. The long term effects are far reaching for our pupils and we are very grateful for Williams Lea’s continued involvement.”

"We are thrilled to be recognised by The Learning Trust with this award and for the ongoing opportunity to contribute to the success of Stormont House School," said Miles Toulson-Clarke, a Director of Williams Lea and sponsor of the relationship with the school. “Having been involved personally with Stormont House since before our mentoring programme commenced, I know at first hand what an outstanding and inspiring school it is. Our mentors are employees who have volunteered their time and who, between them, have an extensive range of knowledge, experience and a genuine interest in the development of young people. Not only do I hope we have added value to the school, but I know our mentors get a great deal of fulfilment from their involvement. The success of the programme is due to the passion and dedication of our employees, but would certainly not be possible without the support and commitment shown by the school.”

Williams Lea is dedicated to its ongoing relationship with Stormont House School and will continue to support the opportunity for pupils to access the expertise of employees through a structured mentoring relationship.