Savannah Wisdom is proud to continue its partnership with Skills Builder to help children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds build the essential skills they need to thrive. This year, our support funded the Accelerator programme in five schools and colleges across the Northwest, where 30% of learners are eligible for Free School Meals.

The 2024–25 End of Year Report shows strong, measurable progress. Across our partner schools:

• 3,859 learners developed essential skills such as problem solving, teamwork, staying positive, speaking, and listening.
• 231 teachers received specialist training to embed skills teaching into everyday learning.
• 97% of teachers saw a positive impact on their school, and 87% reported clear progress in their learners’ essential skills.

A highlight of this year’s work comes from Utopia School in Merseyside, where staff reported that embedding essential skills across their curriculum has “massively positively impacted students’ confidence and competence,” particularly for young people at risk of becoming NEET. Teachers described the programme as “transformative” and praised the consistent support provided throughout the year.

By investing in essential skills, Savannah Wisdom continues to strengthen social mobility, improve long-term life outcomes and help ensure that every young person, regardless of background, has the tools to succeed.

‍

‍