Here, you will find more details about the Empower Academy programme including information about each of the sessions and how to get in touch with us.
Empower Academy is a programme of activities designed to give young people the skills, knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their future. It is a collaborative programme bringing together the four universities in Lancashire, Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, and Future U.
The programme is open to young people living in Lancashire who are care experienced. Empower Academy launches at the end of Year 8 and will span over two years, culminating in a celebration event at the end of Year 10.
If you are interested in taking part in the programme, or know a young person who might be, please email us at:
futureuadmin@lancashire.ac.uk
Programme Outline
Where?
University of Cumbria
Bowerham Rd, Lancaster LA1 3JD
When?
16th September, 10am-2pm
Arrival from 9:30am
Programme
Year 9: Programme Launch Event
Year 10: Personal Project Launch Event
Catering
Catering will be provided. Please make us aware of any dietary requirements.
Where?
Edge Hill University
St Helens Rd, Ormskirk L39 4QP
When?
3rd December, 10am-2pm
Arrival from 9:30am
Programme
Year 9 and Year 10: Fire Up Your Future – by Art of Brilliance
An inspiring, high-energy session that helps you boost positivity, motivation and resilience. It’s all about rediscovering your drive and becoming your best self for the future.
Catering
Catering will be provided. Please make us aware of any dietary requirements.
Where?
University of Lancashire
Fylde Rd, Preston PR1 2HE
When?
26th February, 10am-2pm
Arrival from 9:30am
Programme
Y9: HE Visit, Theme: Sense of Belonging
Y10: Project Support Event: Research Methods
Both Year Group will participate in a session at the new Young Creative Centre.
Catering
Catering will be provided. Please make us aware of any dietary requirements.
Where?
Lancaster University
Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW
When?
13th May, 10am-2pm
Arrival from 9:30am
Programme
Y9: HE Visit, Theme: Student Experience
Y10: Project Support Event: Presentation Skills
Catering
Catering will be provided. Please make us aware of any dietary requirements.
Where?
University of Cumbria
Bowerham Rd, Lancaster LA1 3JD
When?
7th July, 10am-2pm
Arrival from 9:30am
Programme
Y9: Personal Project Launch Event
Y10: Project Presentations & Celebration Event
Catering
Catering will be provided. Please make us aware of any dietary requirements.
FAQs
Got questions? We've got answers!
If you have any more questions about the Empower Academy programme, send us an email at futureuadmin@lancashire.ac.uk
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Each session will take place in a different location across Lancashire. When confirming you attendance at each, your school and the council will support you with your travel plans.
The Empower Academy programme is open to any young person in Lancashire who is care experienced and is currently in Year 8. Some young people may already know each other but please don’t worry if you don’t know anybody else when you sign up, there will be lots of opportunities to get to know one another along the way!
The programme will be facilitated by a range of professionals from universities and other organisations including outreach staff and current university students.
We are also hoping to offer some sessions for carers/supporters to help them best support young people in their educational journey.
We want to ensure you feel as supported as possible throughout the programme and so there will be opportunities for your supporters to get involved along the way.
Some of the activities are aimed solely at the young people participating, but they will always be facilitated by friendly and approachable outreach staff.
If you are worried about attending alone, please reach out to us and we will do our best to accommodate your needs and ensure you feel comfortable.
Generally, you are welcome to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. If there is anything specific you need to bring (such as waterproof coat and shoes) we will let you know in advance. You will also find information relating to each activity on this page.
Food and drinks will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own if you would prefer.