Disadvantaged young people in the UK face significant barriers to success due to high levels of deprivation. These gaps open early. By the time they leave primary school, children from the most deprived areas are less likely to have taken part in extracurricular activities, have lower confidence and attainment, and are more likely to fall behind their peers both academically and socially. Liverpool is one of the most deprived local authority areas in England, and we already deliver a highly successful programme in secondary schools there. Businesses, educators and researchers have stressed the importance of supporting these young people early so they can progress and realise their potential, for both society and the economy.

Through structured mentoring sessions and competition, pupils develop transferable skills that prepare them for success at secondary school and beyond, improving their confidence and future outcomes. Our programme uses debating as a tool to develop pupils' soft and hard skills. Weekly sessions are delivered in person by trained Debate Mate mentors. By engaging with current topics throughout the programme, pupils also build an awareness and understanding of the world around them, engaging actively with issues in the curriculum and their community.