“Socialising with new people was one of my favourite parts. I really enjoyed the theatre workshop and the day trip to Howden’s Insurance Company.” “I’ve become more confident and comfortable in myself.” “Making friends here has been one of the best parts.” “I’ve spoken to almost everyone here, which is crazy as I normally stay with the people I know.” “I liked the part of the day where we learned about all the different lives and roles that go into building a company and working in insurance.” “I’m getting better at socialising which is a big step for me.” “Managed to get the train. First time doing that on my own.” “Proud of all the scholars and what we’ve achieved.” “Socialising with new people was one of my favourite parts. I really enjoyed the theatre workshop and the day trip to Howden’s Insurance Company.” “I’ve become more confident and comfortable in myself.” “Making friends here has been one of the best parts.” “I’ve spoken to almost everyone here, which is crazy as I normally stay with the people I know.” “I liked the part of the day where we learned about all the different lives and roles that go into building a company and working in insurance.” “I’m getting better at socialising which is a big step for me.” “Managed to get the train. First time doing that on my own.” “Proud of all the scholars and what we’ve achieved.”

First Star Scholars
Empowering Children In Care

First Star helps children in care aim higher and achieve more. Through life-changing residentials, group sessions, and one-to-one support, we build confidence, raise aspirations, and support long-term success.

Whatever your background – Whatever your path

Join us for the remainder of the 2025–26 year at a special reduced rate, with full access to support packages and the March STEM residential in York included.

First Star Programmes and 2 programmes completed

of First Star graduates in Training or Employment

1 %

of First Star graduates progressing To HE

1 %

of scholars passed GCSEs at grade 5 or higher

1 %

Championing Care Leavers: Baroness Floella Benjamin and the First Star Mission

Breaking the Care Ceiling

Breaking the Care Ceiling is a landmark report commissioned by First Star Scholars UK, exploring the university journeys of care-experienced young people across the UK. It reveals how many care leavers access higher education, what their outcomes look like, and what happens to those who don’t make it to university. The findings offer a powerful call to action for educators, policymakers, and support networks to raise aspirations and remove barriers.

Inspiring Dreams and Futures

First Star empowers children in care to plan for their long-term success, creating an inclusive and supportive environment that paves the way for their bright futures. Through regular group sessions, one-to-one mentoring, and immersive residential experiences on university campuses, we help young people build confidence, community, and the skills they need to thrive — both now and in the years ahead.

A Glimpse Into Our Community

Our community is a vibrant mix of young minds, each with unique dreams and potential. Together we celebrate achievements, overcome challenges, and build a brighter future.

First Star is more than an educational initiative—it’s a family empowering the next generation of leaders.

https://firststaruk.org/success-stories/

https://firststaruk.org/first-star-impact-2025/

https://firststaruk.org/breaking-the-care-ceiling-3/

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/care-leavers-barely-register-at-top-universities-q82ncnw05#:~:text=Care%20leavers%20make%20up%20only,million%20undergraduates%20in%202021%2D22.

Our Current Programmes

First Star at Emmanuel College Cambridge and University College London

Our new four year programme for looked after children in the East of England and London is now in full swing, with a strong start and an inspiring first cohort. Scholars have already taken part in university visits, explored identity and voice through workshops with LUNG Theatre, and built confidence through Care to Dance sessions. They’ve enjoyed boat trips, discovered new perspectives in museums, and begun shaping their own goals for the future in a supportive, ambitious environment.

We are currently recruiting additional scholars to join the programme. There are still places available, and we welcome referrals from professionals, carers and supporters who know young people who would benefit from consistent academic and personal support.

Next in the calendar is our STEM Centre residential in March 2026 — a hands on experience where scholars will explore science and technology in real world settings, meet role models, and spark new ambitions for the future.

Alumni Voices

First Star helped me find my way. I’m doing travelling, working and I think I’m at the happiest place I've been in a long time. It's nice to have people you can go to to talk about your problems.

Teshie

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First Star is a place to build a story with people who are in a similar situation to your own. A place to learn life skills, go on fun activities and create everlasting memories.

Michael

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

These people here are not just people on a programme, they are my friends, family and siblings now. I love them with all my heart we’ve been through it all.

Kushi

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

First Star Scholars Empowering Children In Care

Championing Care Leavers: Baroness Floella Benjamin and the First Star Mission

Inspiring Dreams and Futures

A Glimpse Into Our Community

Our Current Programmes

First Star at Emmanuel College Cambridge and University College London

Alumni Voices

First Star Scholars
Empowering Children In Care