The chance to meet people from the business world can have a profound effect on students.

Meeting people from the world of work can open students' eyes to new possibilities - providing role models and a motivation to succeed at school.

Work experience, for example, can give an enormous boost to a student's motivation and a powerful insight into the skills and attitudes required by employers. Projects involving business people can teach students skills such as:

• communication
• teamwork
• numeracy
• IT
• and problem-solving.

Business people can act as role models and guides too - encouraging effort in school work and develop a student's self-confidence and motivation.

Through our projects, we help students raise their aspirations and achievements, making a real difference to the prospects for the rest of their lives.

"I didn't real know what a banker did. I know now and want to be one."

Mark, age 8, Goodrich Primary School

"My mentor has kept me on the right path. She helped me decide what I want to do and how to get there."

Margaret, age 14, Harris Girls' Academy East Dulwich