Big challenge ahead! ⛰️

In September 2025, I’ll be trekking to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) to raise money for Working Options in Education. Through its partnership with Partners&, I've had a fantastic opportunity to support the valuable work they do.

About Working Options in Education

Working Options in Education is a national charity with a local focus, helping 14-19-year-olds in state schools across England and Wales build the skills, confidence, and networks they need to succeed – regardless of their background. Having seen the impact of their work first-hand through Partners&’s partnership with Working Options, I’m excited to take on this challenge and further support this fantastic charity.

Through free, curriculum-aligned programmes, including employer-led insight talks, employability skills workshops, business challenges, and workplace taster days, the charity connects classroom learning with the real world of work. All sessions are delivered with the support of volunteer professionals who bring industries and career journeys to life.

The need has never been greater. Almost 1 million young people in the UK are not in education, employment, or training (NEET) – a staggering 1 in 8). Many have limited access to professional role models or workplace exposure.

The impact is real:

• Young people who have four or more employer encounters are 86% more likely to be in work, education or training

• They can earn up to 22% more

• 90% of teachers say these encounters improve academic attainment as well

• And Working Options reaches young people at just £6.80 per student—making it one of the most cost-effective interventions of its kind – my fundraising efforts here will directly help reach over 220 young people!

I’ve seen the power of this work first-hand through the Partners& partnership, and I’m proud to champion a charity making such a meaningful, measurable difference.