Leidos UK helps young people build brighter futures
Supporting confidence and ambition through JET's Blue Skies programme
Why it matters
Confidence today shapes future opportunities
Access can unlock ambition and potential.
Small support can change life trajectories.
Students from Milton Cross School and Trafalgar School in Portsmouth, England have completed their first year of the Jon Egging Trust’s (JET) Blue Skies programme. The milestone was supported by Leidos UK volunteers and marked by a donation of laptops to help the students continue their learning journey.
Leidos UK began partnering with JET in 2025, recognising the important role the charity plays in helping young people realise their potential. As part of its commitment to supporting positive outcomes for young people, Leidos has contributed through volunteer engagement and practical initiatives designed to remove barriers to learning.
How the Blue Skies programme supports young people
The Blue Skies programme supports young people who may be facing challenges both in and outside the classroom, helping them build confidence, resilience and aspiration through guidance, skills development and new experiences. By providing tailored support, practical resources and meaningful interaction with role models, the programme helps participants broaden their horizons, build self-belief and explore pathways that may previously have felt out of reach.
Removing barriers to learning through technology
To help remove barriers to learning, Leidos donated laptops to pupils from both schools. The devices provide access to educational resources and give students the tools they need to continue developing their skills and knowledge beyond the classroom. They also support digital learning and encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), helping inspire future career possibilities.
Volunteers help students build confidence and skills
Leidos volunteers, including Daniel Barber and Jordan Baxter, attended the end-of-year celebration event, where students reflected on their progress over the past 12 months. Throughout the year, volunteers shared their insights, provided encouragement and acted as positive role models, helping students build confidence in their abilities and ambitions for the future. Many students spoke about increased self-belief, new skills and a more positive outlook on what lies ahead. Teachers also highlighted improved engagement, attendance and participation among those involved in the programme.
Nic Banner, Regional Manager for Dorset and Hampshire at the Jon Egging Trust, said:
At JET, we see every day how confidence and aspiration grow when young people are given the right opportunities and support. We’re incredibly grateful to Leidos for donating laptops to students across two of our partner schools. For the young people receiving them, these aren’t just laptops; they’re tools that help remove barriers to learning, open doors to new opportunities and support their future ambitions.
Expanding the Leidos UK and JET partnership
As the partnership enters its second year, Leidos UK volunteers will continue working alongside JET to help young people gain new experiences, build confidence and prepare for the opportunities ahead. The organisations will also explore ways to expand the partnership and support students in other regions.
Three things to remember
- JET’s Blue Skies programme helps young people build confidence, resilience and ambition.
- Leidos UK volunteers provide guidance, encouragement and positive role models.
- Donated laptops remove barriers to learning and support future STEM opportunities.
