First Star 2U

Lead a child you care for to success today

We believe that every young person deserves the chance to fulfil their potential and achieve the best!

Whatever their background, whatever their path

First Star 2U programme – Runs for 4 years & includes monthly online academic enrichment classes, year-round mentoring, life skills workshops, and a 7 day summer campus immersion residential held annually at the University of Sussex

Open to children with care experience currently in year 11

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  • No Fees

Supported by the

The Benefits

After completing a First Star programme: 50% have progressed to HE and 45% are in training or employment

Friendship

Everyone here has a common goal – Success. What that looks like for each scholar varies but the support, love and guidance that everyone shows each other is  hugely important.

Track Their Progress

Once a scholar is enrolled on a programme carers and virtual schools receive an on going update.  In addition Directors support progress, joining  PEPs meetings and liaising with schools. 

Adventure

Unlock all the joys of summer at our residential programme – learning new skills, creating unforgettable memories with life long friends, eating good food and getting support from other people on the same journey as you.

Tutoring

6 monthly hours of online learning and activities, 1-1 sessions & group sessions that follow the VESPA model. 

Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice and Attitude

All resources are included such as free laptop – all we ask is a commitment to ensure that the young person can complete the programme. 

Here's How It Works

Nourish your creative spirit

Designed for young people at all levels of learning. Each month we deliver 6 hours or more of fun, interactive lessons to help young people get the grades they need for the career they want.

Residential Experiences

On campus stays - exciting activities that challenge you and offer you a chance to do and learn something new. Includes activities like high ropes, team building, canoeing, business, engineering, science and creative sessions; mentoring and introductions to HE sessions; building to include supported university visits and much more.

Make New Friends

This is a safe place for young people in care. It's a place to fit in, have fun, make mistakes and try new things.

University Experience

Scholars spend their time on campus at the University of Sussex for 7 days during the summer holidays. Live in halls, eat 3 meals a day in the canteen, experience university life and taster sessions on various degrees.

Support & Mentorship

Our focus is to provide training and long-term support. The programme runs for 4 years. Focusing on GCSEs & college support, university & careers preparation, life skills, leadership, employability training and readiness for independent living.

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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. its 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
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These people here are not just people on a programme, they are my friend’s, family and, siblings now. I love them with all my heart we’ve been through it all.
Kushi
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Training & Extensive Support

      The programme develops and implements a life skills curriculum to ensure children in care are prepared for adulthood. 

      Workshops focus on psycho-social, self-efficacy skills, and include topics such as budgeting, nutrition, healthy relationships, and substance abuse.

      We provide a fulfilling and supportive environment appreciating collaboration and valuing diversity.

      

 

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