Elevating Excellence is a flagship programme led by South Bristol Youth (SBY) that challenges high-achieving students to reach and exceed their potential. The initiative also introduces participants to aspirational pathways in further education and high-quality employment.
Aimed at ‘high prior attaining’ pupils, the programme is designed to:
- Help students maintain high levels of achievement and motivation throughout their school journey, particularly towards GCSEs.
- Increase confidence in accessing ambitious further and higher education options, as well as top-tier career opportunities.
- Foster a sense of agency, aspiration and optimism about their futures.
SMV has proudly partnered with SBY for over four years, supporting a wide range of impactful programmes during that time. Most recently, we were delighted to host another Elevating Excellence event at Merchants’ Hall, where several of our members spent the day working with students.
Dr Jackie Cornish OBE, Chris Patterson and Denis Burn MBE DL led small group discussions centred around the question: “What are the key attributes for success?” These sessions encouraged the students to reflect on their own potential and the skills that drive achievement.
The morning began with a Positive Mindset workshop, encouraging students to be open-minded, resilient and confident in the face of external pressures, such as the influence of social media. Students also explored strategies for protecting their mental wellbeing online.
In the afternoon, discussions turned to broader societal topics such as personal freedom and free speech. This thought-provoking session created a space where students could voice opinions and explore complex issues in a supportive, intellectually challenging environment.
Camilla Chandler-Mant, Chief Executive of the South Bristol Consortium for Young People, shared her enthusiasm for the event hosted by SMV: “The whole day worked really well. The discussion on the facets of leadership and excellence had real depth. The tour was integral to the experience, providing meaningful context about SMV and the building itself, with some fascinating historical facts.”
For many students, the highlight of the day included the chance to meet new people, build professional confidence, and enjoy what one student described as an “amazing tour of the Hall!”.
Mrs Chandler-Mant reflected: “The impact was immediate and inspiring. Engaging with SMV members in a historic setting, and having their ideas taken seriously, helped build communication skills and boosted confidence. Students left feeling really optimistic.”
This was the second time that SMV has hosted students from the Elevating Excellence programme. SMV’s Chief Executive Caroline Duckworth DL, said: “Our members believe that events like this help to grow young people’s social and cultural capital, equipping them with the confidence to explore new experiences and connect meaningfully with people beyond their everyday environment. It’s a privilege to be able to support dynamic organisations such as South Bristol Youth and play a small part in the incredible work they’re doing to provide young people with the confidence and skills to achieve their true potential.”
To find out more about how South Bristol Youth is empowering young people to succeed, click here.
