What do Aspire 2 Succeed do?

At Aspire 2 Succeed we support young people aged 11–19 to grow in confidence, achieve academically and develop the skills they need for successful futures. We provide tailored support in core subjects including Maths, English, and Science, alongside focused GCSE and post-16 guidance. Through positive role models and one-to-one mentoring, we help young people build self-esteem, strengthen communication skills, and raise aspirations. Beyond education, we offer career guidance, leadership development, and support with applications for college, university, apprenticeships, and employment. We also create safe spaces for social connection through trips, sports, and enrichment activities, while working closely with parents to ensure families feel supported every step of the way.

Our Mission

At Aspire 2 Succeed, our mission is to unlock the potential in every young person. We believe that all young people have unique talents, and with the right support, encouragement, and opp ortunities, they can thrive.

We are committed to:

• Engaging young people in education to build confidence, self-awareness, and aspiration

• Creating an equitable, inclusive, and welcoming environment for young people aged 11–25

• Providing meaningful experiences that inspire growth through learning, connection, and shared opportunity

• Promoting wellbeing through the kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication of our volunteers

• Working with openness and transparency to ensure a safe and supportive space

• Raising aspirations, developing skills, and adding lasting value to the lives of all young people

Encouraging the Next Generation

We support young people to raise their aspirations, develop new skills, and build positive futures. Through high quality mentoring and enrichment opportunities, we provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where young people can grow in confidence and ambition. Our passionate volunteers act as positive role models, encouraging an “I can and I will” mindset that helps young people overcome challenges and avoid negative influences.

Valuing Every Young Person

At Aspire 2 Succeed, we celebrate diverse talents, experiences, and perspectives. We listen with care, act with integrity, and build strong, lasting relationships with young people and their families. We challenge and stretch young people to reach their full potential, supporting them to recognise their strengths and strive for excellence.

Our strong reputation is built on trusted partnerships with community leaders, churches, and the Universities of Derby and Nottingham, enabling us to extend opportunities and broaden horizons for the young people we serve.

A Professional Mentoring Programme

Many young people grow up without consistent access to positive role models or trusted guidance. While they are encouraged to dream big and aim high, they are not always given the support needed to turn those ambitions into reality.

At Aspire 2 Succeed, we believe young people have the potential to change their futures — and even the world — but they should not have to do it alone. That is why we launched our Mentoring Programme in 2016. Since then, we have connected young people across Derby and Derbyshire with mentors from professional and educational backgrounds who provide guidance, encouragement, and practical support.

Our mentors help young people raise their expectations, build resilience, develop key life skills, and gain clarity around their education and career pathways. We are committed to expanding this provision so that as many young people as possible can benefit from meaningful mentoring relationships.

Our Approach: Developmental Mentoring

We use a Developmental Mentoring model, which focuses on the personal growth and long-term development of the mentee. This approach encourages a two-way learning relationship, where the young person takes an active role in setting goals and driving their own progress.

Mentoring at Aspire 2 Succeed is a structured and purposeful process. Clear expectations are established, mutual respect is central, and both mentor and mentee gain value from the relationship. The focus is not only on immediate goals, but on building confidence, independence, and lifelong skills.

What Our Mentees Say

Our mentees consistently tell us that mentoring provides a safe space built on trust, understanding, and acceptance. They value having someone to talk to openly about their challenges, aspirations, and future plans. Many report improved confidence and stronger communication skills as a result of regular discussions.

Young people also appreciate the practical advice and encouragement they receive around education, career choices, and personal development. Mentors often support them in preparing for key decisions, school meetings, and next steps, helping them feel motivated, supported, and better equipped for the future.