“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.”
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First Star Impact Reports

Children in care often experience disrupted schooling, placement moves and the impact of trauma. They are less likely to achieve strong GCSEs and to progress to higher education compared with their peers. Transition points such as GCSEs, post‑16 and leaving care can be cliff edges without stable adult scaffolding.

Carers and educators want to help but need time, tools and trusted pathways. First Star’s response is a long‑term, relationship‑centred programme that builds belonging, skills, aspirations and practical access to higher education.

Scholars walking in central London to Howden Insurance
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have enjoyed being part of the programmes and activities

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have felt very supported and safe during activities and sessions

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feel their voice and ideas have been valued in the programme

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would recommend First Star Scholars to someone in a similar situation

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have experienced social and emotional growth through the programme

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feel confident expressing their thoughts and opinions in group settings

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feel connected to other scholars in the programme

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feel optimistic about their future

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.

Find out more"Breaking The Care Ceiling" - Commissioned by First Star Scholars UK

Headline outcomes for 2025 for those taking exams, progressing to University or employment:

  • GCSE English & maths 4+ pass rate: 79%
  • Progression to higher education: 50%
  • Progression to training or employment: 45%

These results sit on top of improved confidence, attendance, study habits and a stronger sense of belonging.

Theory of Change

Our theory of change connects the needs of care-experienced young people with the activities and outcomes of our programme. We create a strong sense of belonging, which builds intrinsic motivation and leads to behavioural alignment with high aspirations. Through consistent support, mentoring, and enriching experiences, young people gain confidence, resilience, and the skills needed to succeed. This results in improved engagement and attainment, with long-term impact seen in higher education access, independence, and breaking cycles of disadvantage.

Reach Output
Flow
Outcome Impact

Where are they now?