A group of students from Sir John Cass’s Foundation & Red Coat Church of England Secondary school in East London, were recently given the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at the Houses of Parliament.

Accompanied by their Mosaic mentor and history teacher, the year 9 students had the opportunity to tour the corridors of power, and find out more about how the British government is run. As well as helping to bring their history lessons to life, the visit helped to inspire the students about the different career prospects open to them.

Thanking Mosaic for the opportunity, history teacher, Lyndsey Morgan, said:

“The students thoroughly enjoyed the trip today and were overwhelmed by the splendour of the building. It was a truly unique experience which will benefit them for years to come!”

Mosaic has been running its secondary school mentoring programme at the school for five years, and aims to build their confidence, professional skills and employability.

Mentor, Paul Bellamy, head of operations at Greenhouse Bank, has been working with the current group over 8 sessions. He has seen a huge turnaround in their confidence and ability to present and discuss ideas:

“They are a wonderful group of students, keen to listen and learn. The development of their individual self-confidence, and ability to present and discuss ideas was plain to see, and a great credit to the girls for all their hard work.”

Thirteen year old Bilkis added:

“We just saw the Oliver Cromwell statue outside parliament! I really enjoyed the tour.”

Mosaic is seeking more professional mentors to volunteer for its secondary school programme – find out more or apply.