Location

• 2-4 hours as a one off
• 1 day (7 hours) as a one off
• 1-2 hours as a one off
• 1-2 hours per week

Unlimited positions available

Wheelchair accessible

Our Aspirations programme allows pupils to gain an insight into world of work, provides primary school pupils with much needed 1:1 reading support and gives pupils the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to challenges linked to different sectors.

By bringing the world of work to life through a variety of encounters with people at work, we aim to inspire people about possible futures and empower them to succeed. The people we work with may have limited access to role models, professional networks and opportunities and limited or no experience of higher education in their family. It is likely that they will lack confidence, motivation and will have low aspirations.

We are working in partnership with The Place, bringing together schools, Higher Education Institutions, City of York Council and employers to provide a safe space for children to learn and grow and adults to connect and access support and training. York Cares will lead on the delivery of an employability strand for the centre.  

Some of the activities in this programme are suitable for individuals, and small teams while other activities are suitable for larger teams. Please contact Hannah via email at [email protected] for more information and to discuss getting involved. 

The Aspirations programme is a great opportunity for people who are keen to help inspire and support others to achieve their full potential. From primary school pupils, through to secondary school pupils and connecting with other groups who work in the community, there are a vast range of opportunities for the people you benefit. We can work with you to identify what opportunity would suit you best. 

Through the Aspirations programme you can share your professional skills, life experience, career journey and so much more giving children and young people an insight into the world of work, boosting confidence and increasing aspirations. 

‘Every volunteer that takes part comes away buzzing, feeling that they have made a difference for that young person in that short period, they also come away wondering what else they can do to help.’

Employee-volunteer, Aviva

Once your activity is confirmed we will be able to share additional details about what is needed.

There are a range of opportunities available within this programme and they take place at various places within the city. We work with local primary schools, secondary schools, The University of York and York St John University, and The Place. We also work with various community organisations in the city. Activities can also take place at your work place.

Once we have worked together to discuss the activity within this programme that is the best fit for you, we can establish the exact details of where the activity will take place. Activities will always take part within York. 

Once your volunteering activity is confirmed we will share further details about the site. We ask volunteers to bring their own food and water for the duration of the activity and toilets are available on site. 

Please contact us via emailing [email protected] to discuss any specific accessibility requirements and we will work with you to identify a suitable volunteering activity.