SpeakOut

The SpeakOut initiative connects schools with university mentors and businesses, helping young people in Sheffield to grow and develop the skills they need to thrive in the real world, beyond school.

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How to get involved

If you'd like to find out more about the SpeakOut initiative, if you're a teacher who would like your students to participate, or would like to be a business mentor, please contact Dr Andreana Drencheva from the University's Management School for more information.

Why do we do this?

Young people today face a lot of challenges and pressures, and this project can help them to see their potential in a safe and positive environment.

They'll explore different after-school pathways with authentic role models, with the opportunity for meaningful learning experiences.

Our university and business mentors share their journeys and experiences with the next generation while learning from the experiences of the young people themselves. 


What are the benefits?

Young people

  • meet authentic role models from the worlds of higher education and business
  • increase their aspirations and skills for higher education
  • enhance their social change skills and employability.

University and business mentors

  • develop their training, coaching, and mentoring skills
  • enhance their skills to work with young people
  • give back to the community.

What's involved?

Schools and businesses sign up to take part in the project each September.

The project officially runs from February to March, with young people learning about the social challenge in a launch event, developing their projects with mentoring support, and presenting their projects in a competition.

A global reputation

Sheffield is a research university with a global reputation for excellence. We're a member of the Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching.