Co-op Young Leaders Shine at Connell
In October 2024, a group of our ambitious and enthusiastic students embarked on a journey to become Co-op Young Leaders. The programme—designed to cultivate leadership skills, teamwork, and community engagement—prepared them for a year of impactful activities and personal growth. So far over 50 students have completed the training and we expect to train at least a further 40 students this year.
From their initial training in October, the Co-op Young Leaders were immersed in activities that emphasised public speaking, event planning, and team collaboration. Equipped with these skills, they became the face of college at key events, such as our open events. During these events, the Young Leaders confidently greeted prospective students and their families, shared personal experiences, and showcased the vibrant community and opportunities available at Connell. Their enthusiasm and professionalism left a lasting impression on visitors, many of whom cited the welcoming atmosphere created by the leaders as a key factor in considering Connell for their future education.
For the Co-op Young Leaders, the experience went beyond promoting their college. Engaging with diverse audiences, answering challenging questions, and collaborating with peers gave them a taste of real-world responsibilities. They honed transferable skills such as communication, time management, and problem-solving, all of which will serve them well in their future careers.
Ahmed, Year 13 student, said: “The course has made me feel much more confident and better equipped to be an ambassador. I also talked to students I didn’t know before and made new friends.’
Emma Soper, Principal, said: “The student ambassadors have always given a great deal to the Connell community. By beginning their journey with CYL training, we start by giving them something - confidence! The confidence to engage with our visitors, many of whom have approached me during our events to praise their ambassador by name for doing such a fantastic job. It’s also a great way for us to get to know them a little better, enabling us to assign them to the best role at an event and also develop relationships between them as a team and our staff who co-ordinate their work.”
Daniela Faldusova, CYL Coordinator said: “Their journey is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the lasting impact of stepping into the real world. This experience is not just a highlight of their time at Connell but a foundation for success in the years to come.”