CHEXS Growth Programme: Empowering Transitions, Celebrating Achievements, and Inspiring Young Voices!
This term has been packed with personal growth, confidence boosts, and milestone moments across all areas of our CHEXS Growth Programme. From transition support to skill-building outdoor adventures, our young people have shown resilience, creativity, and a drive to succeed.
Transition Programme: Supporting Positive Change
As our Transition Programme for secondary students wraps up, we’re thrilled to reflect on what has been a hugely successful run. It’s been heartening to watch these young people grow into their new environments, tackle challenges head-on, and develop stronger emotional resilience.
Here’s what some of our young people had to say:
“I feel this has really helped me improve my self-confidence and my behaviour at school.”
“CHEXS is the best thing ever made. It’s about making new friends and helping your emotions.”
“Doing this has helped me feel better at school and helped me settle in.”
“I feel more confident—I was worried about lots of things, especially the different lessons.”
“I really enjoyed being with CHEXS and I now feel more settled into my new school.”
It’s clear these sessions are creating a meaningful impact—helping students feel seen, supported, and ready to take on their new journey.
Bronze Badges & School Celebrations: Marking Achievements
This term, our children and students have worked incredibly hard to earn their Bronze Achievement Badges—a meaningful milestone on their journey toward Silver and Gold awards.
We were proud to welcome Paul Seeby, Sheila Farmer, and Deputy Mayor Patsy Spears to our partner school assemblies to present the certificates. Their support helped shine a spotlight on the determination, progress, and commitment each young person has shown.
What an inspiring celebration for all involved—well done to every student who earned their badge!
MY LIFE Sessions: Empowering Young Women
Our Children and Young People Team recently delivered three inspiring MY LIFE sessions with a group of Year 12 girls—providing space for real conversations and empowering young women to feel confident in who they are.
Session Highlights:
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Session 1: Confidence, body image, social media, self-esteem, and honest chats about life and aspirations
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Session 2: Consent, healthy relationships, and building teamwork and trust
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Session 3: Looking ahead—setting goals, exploring success, budgeting, and building independence
In today’s world, these sessions are more important than ever. They offer a safe space for young women to reflect, connect, and grow.
Community Habitat Project: Nature, Learning & Legacy
As nesting season approaches, we’ve brought another successful season of Community Habitat work to a close—supporting Lee Valley with vital habitat management.
Secondary Students took part in structured afternoons of, Den building, Bow and arrow making, Mallet making, Water and fire safety sessions.
Primary Students embraced nature through bird hide visits and outdoor learning—boosting confidence and supporting their mental well-being.
Young people’s reflections:
“I liked being outside, I enjoyed learning new skills.”
“Being outside helps my mental health.”
We’re so proud of all their efforts and the positive legacy they’ve left behind in our local green spaces.
Meet the Team Behind the Magic!
Our dedicated Children and Young People Team brings expertise, passion, and commitment to every session. With vast experience in mentoring, education, and youth development, they ensure that every activity supports the young people’s growth and aspirations. Learn more about their incredible work and qualifications:
- Kerry Davies: Read More – With extensive experience in youth work and family support, Kerry is passionate about empowering young people to achieve their potential.
- Karen MH: Read More – A highly skilled practitioner, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge in emotional resilience and mentoring, helping young people develop confidence and leadership skills.
- Nicola Roberts: Read More – With a strong background in education and safeguarding, Nicola plays a pivotal role in delivering impactful and meaningful programmes that support young people’s well-being and personal growth.
- Jack Ferris: Read More – Is a qualified football coach who volunteers in youth football. Jack’s back ground is in education and he is trained following the Hertfordshire’s therapeutic thinking approach formally known as “Steps”.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the next half of the Growth Programme, we’re excited to:
- Easter Holiday Clubs.
- Continue empowering young people through outdoor learning and leadership challenges.
- Provide tailored mentoring and emotional resilience coaching.
- Strengthen community connections through meaningful projects.
- Help young people develop life skills that will serve them beyond school.
- and most importantly – HAVE FUN!
Thank you to everyone who supports CHEXS—together, we’re making a real difference!
