Elevate Northampton – Empowering the Next Generation of Professionals

Since its launch in Northampton, the Start Young UK Elevate Programme with Barclays has been inspiring young people to explore career pathways, develop essential workplace skills, and grow in confidence. Over six engaging sessions, students have embraced opportunities to learn, reflect, and build connections that will support their future ambitions.

Session Highlights

Integration & Workplace Relationships

Our first sessions were expertly led by Libby Rhodes, focusing on understanding how to integrate into new workplaces and building strong, meaningful relationships. Students were joined by Mick Walsh, Chief Security Officer, who shared his inspiring career journey and the importance of resilience. Grant Murdoch, an SME speaker, introduced students to the world of procurement and its role in creating sustainable futures. Craig Phillips from the Northampton Saints Foundation engaged students with hands-on sessions on collaboration and workplace behaviour, inspiring confidence and reflection.

Growth Mindset & Personal Values

Led by Nicola Childs, students explored growth mindset principles and reflected on how their personal values align with future career paths. Internal speaker Anna Briggs shared her career journey, motivating students to embrace new challenges. Chris Hillery, Chief Superintendent, Northamptonshire Police, facilitated an open dialogue on leadership and ethical decision-making, leaving students with valuable insights.

Personal Goals & SMART Planning

In later sessions, students focused on identifying strengths, transferable skills, and setting structured SMART goals. Through discussion, reflection, and creativity, participants built vision boards representing their three-year aspirations. Internal speakers Rachael Godby and Luke Bowers provided guidance and mentorship throughout this reflective and future-focused activity.

Personal Branding & Professional Presence

The programme culminated with a session led by Keira Gillott, a Barclays apprentice and mentor, demonstrating how young professionals can give back and support others following similar paths. Students were also joined by Abbie Isaacs, who shared her journey into banking, and Chloe Black from KERV, who introduced students to the world of start-ups. These sessions challenged students to reflect on their strengths, define their personal brand, and understand how their values shape their professional identity.

Mentors and Support Team

We are incredibly grateful to our mentors and staff who made this programme possible. Your dedication, energy, and guidance have made an incredible difference to the students’ experience.

Making an Impact

Through these sessions, students have built confidence, developed practical workplace skills, and reflected on their personal and professional goals. The Elevate Programme is helping to shape a generation of empowered, thoughtful, and ambitious young people, ready to step into new opportunities with clarity and purpose.

We’re incredibly proud of the Northampton cohort and the growth we’ve seen so far — and we look forward to supporting the next stage of their journey!