Target Fire Protection Supports Rochdale’s Young People Again Through the Skills for Life Programme

Target Fire Protection’s Director, Richard Harris, recently took part in the 2025 Skills for Life Programme — his second year supporting this initiative, which is organised by The Talent Foundry and funded by M&G plc. Also a big shout out to Rochdale Development agency who facilitated and helped put these sessions on !

The programme brings together Year 10 pupils from across Rochdale to help them build life skills, raise aspirations, and gain insight into the world of work. Richard once again volunteered as a mentor, attending all four sessions and working closely with students from a range of schools.

“All four sessions were well run and well attended. Seeing the students get more involved and develop over time was really encouraging,” Richard said. “Giving young people time outside of the normal school day shows them that there are opportunities out there they’d never see just going through the motions at school.”

Richard noted how valuable it is for students to see what’s possible beyond the classroom — and how success at school still plays a role in unlocking those future options.

“It motivates them to realise there’s more to life than just school. But it’s also important they understand that succeeding as a student now makes the next step in life that much easier.”

One of the key things that stood out to Richard was how much of a difference a bit of personal engagement can make. He found that simply listening to the students and treating them with respect helped bring out their potential.

“A little effort connecting with young people can go a long way. Listening to them, treating them like young adults — that’s when you get the best out of them.”

He also reflected on the differences in how boys and girls approached the sessions. While some of the girls were confident in small groups, Richard noticed a drop in confidence when they had to present in front of the room.

“The confidence shown in small group discussions wasn’t there when they were presenting. Work still needs to be done to show young women they can — and should — be just as confident as the boys when speaking up. I’ll continue to support that however I can.”

A standout moment came when Richard formed a connection with four lads from two different schools who had initially been dismissive of the programme.

“They started out not taking it seriously — a bit of a ‘this is silly’ attitude. But I spoke with them, encouraged them to make the most of it, and they really took that on board. By the final session, they were using me as a resource to help create an ideal candidate for a job. That was a big turnaround and great to see.”

The Talent Foundry shared overwhelmingly positive feedback from students across the programme:

“I feel more confident about the future”

What, if anything, might be different for you as a result of taking part in this project? “Everything I think” 

“I learnt to take every opportunity given to me and to be confident and take risks in uncomfortable situations”

“I rated it good because it has made me a better person”

“I am a lot more hopeful for the future”

“I want it again, with the same people, same mentors, and same students”

“It has helped me clear the path to my future career”

“It has helped me think more positively about my future. I learnt to put yourself out of your comfort zone and push through for better opportunities in the future.”

“It is perfect in my opinion.”

“I learnt how to value myself.”

“I know more about life, and I know more about how to get a job.”

“Well done, I want more sessions.”

“It encouraged me to come out of my shell.”

“I met new people and became more confident.”

“I learnt that I work well with others.”

The Skills for Life programme continues to make a real impact on young people in Rochdale — and Target Fire Protection is proud to be part of it.

Cate Smith at The Talent Foundry has had the following positive words to say about the recent programme;

“We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved through our M&G Skills for Life programme in Rochdale for the second year, and deeply grateful to the local business community for their support as mentors. Their time, insights and encouragement made a real difference to the young people involved. By opening their doors and sharing their experiences, they’ve helped students see new possibilities for their futures, and shown that there’s a place for them in the world of work. This project proves what can happen when a community comes together to invest in its young people.”

Interested in getting involved next year?

Contact Cate Smith at cate.smith@talentfoundry.org.uk to find out how you or your business can support future events.