About us - Speakers for Schools

ACCESS TO THE VERY TOP FOR ALL YOUNG PEOPLE

Founded in 2010 by ITV’s Political Editor, Robert Peston, our aim is to end educational inequality by giving all young people access to the same prestigious networks available to the top fee-paying schools in the UK. Through talks from today’s influential figures via our Inspiration programme, our Experience work experience programme linking state school students to industry-leading companies and networked support partners we are helping level the playing field for young people of all backgrounds. And, we keep our services for our schools and students entirely free of charge.

WHY WE EXIST

Having access to leading figures disrupts this pattern and allows state school students to engage with influential people who can share inspiration on pursuing their ambitions and broaden their horizons.

That’s why we specifically reach state schools, academies and colleges that have students affected by area deprivation, disadvantage and lack of networks.

We’re here to connect the dots and shake up the current system to change the status quo.

Our aspirational engagements, put young people in touch with the very best, to spark their ambitions and the belief in what is possible for the future. Speakers for Schools brings together eminent figures of today, from FTSE 100s and arts leaders to CEOs and tenured professors, creating a dynamic network of thousands of school talks and esteemed work experience placements – all for free.

So far, we have reached over 1,000,000 students nationwide through our school talks and work experience programme.

Speakers for Schools facilitates over 2,500 engagements and placements a year, having reached over a third of all secondary schools and colleges across the UK. Founded by Robert Peston and chaired by Andrew Law with a board of trustees, it is funded by the Law Family Charitable Foundation.

1 End of Cycle Report, UCAS (2016)
2 Skills 2030 Campaign Survey, YouGov plc (Feb 2018)
3 Leading People: The educational backgrounds of the UK professional elite, Sutton Trust (2016)