YOUNGSTERS have graduated from a scheme to increase their self-belief and confidence.
Twelve pupils from Archbishop Sentamu Academy were selected to take part in a 12-week programme, co-ordinated by CatZero and sponsored by Sewell Group.
The pupils took part in 34 activities, all designed to developed their life and employability skills.
Activities included an overnight sail on the CatZero yacht, camping, rock climbing and boxing.
Sewell arranged for the group to try their hands at bricklaying on the new Aspire Academy site in Preston Road, east Hull, before they took park in the official bricklaying ceremony, where they laid the first bricks of the build.
The pupils are all those who may have attended Aspir had it been open.
Jamie Jordan, 16, says the experience was unbelievable.
He said: "It's been quite life changing. "It has been useful for me to get motivated and to move on in life.
I was feeling a bit worried about leaving school, but this experience with CatZero and Sewell helped motivate me to get to my exams on time, feel ready for them and I felt confident coming out."
Jamie and the others have also earned three new qualifications in first aid, food and hygiene and health and safety.
Jamie said: "I am going to college now to do public services and I want to work in the prison service when I am older."
Mark Mulvana, 16, said: "I was asked to do this and I thought I would give it a go and it has been a really good experience. I've really enjoyed all the activities and I am really proud of myself for completing my exams. I'm now focused on what I want to do next, which is getting qualified in cooking.
"Without CatZero and the team from Sewell, I wouldn't have the determination I now have to do something with my life. They've inspired me to be a better person."
The 12 boys attended a graduation ceremony at the KC Lightstream Stadium, where they were given awards.
Chris Mulqueen, head for the future Aspire Academy, said: "The programme has been a great success due to the efforts of all involved, particularly the young people that have participated, who have completed their exams and achieved great attendance, which is a reflection of their enjoyment and commitment. This programme would not have been possible without CatZero and the sponsorship provided by Sewell.
"They have all invested their time and enthusiasm, as well as their experience, advice and important life skills, which has given the young people aspirations, as they are now aware that their efforts will be rewarded in the future."
Paul Sewell, managing director of Sewell Group, said: "CatZero gives youngsters the skills, confidence and motivation to develop into successful individuals – a win-win for local people and local businesses. "
We'll continue to support this one-of-a-kind organisation."
