The team at Poole Audi are backing a new Academy.  Within walking distance of the sparkling Audi showroom is St. Aldhelm’s Academy which opened on 1st September 2010.  Based on the old site of Rossmore Community College, who closed their doors on 31st August 2010 due to its failing school status and a fair share of problems; very few students achieved 5 GCSEs, none went on to university and crime and disruption were regarded as recognised social issues.

“So, why would Poole Audi want an association with St. Aldhelm’s Academy and the Rossmore Community?”

The answer stems from a meeting with the new Principal, Cheryl Heron, facilitated by the charity “Business in the Community”.  Poole Audi had been looking for an opportunity to work with the local community and was inspired by the drive and creative approach Cheryl brought to the table.

Poole Audi’s Head of Business, Steve Russell, explains, “The new Academy status, combined with Cheryl’s personality and track record, convinced us that there was a real opportunity for this Academy to have a fresh start.  We felt that we could use the allure and the glamour of the Audi brand to good effect.  We want to give local young people an insight into the world of business and bring inspiration around the rewards which come from working hard and building skills.  I also felt that our team might act as role models for some of the young people in the Academy.”.

And so begins a 3 year programme.

Already, Poole Audi has 11 volunteers who are working with the Academy in different ways:

o   Super-learning days, where the young people in their final year are taught the skills they will need to find a job. This includes help with writing a CV and application letter, practice at job interviews and exercises to boost confidence and self-esteem;

o   Working with the Sixth Form young people to refurbish their common room. Starting with zero budget the challenge is to build a room the students can be proud of; a place to study and to relax;

o   Delivering Training to the Student Voice Ambassadors in each year on how to implement effective Student Voice meetings by improving their listening, communication and organisational skills as well as note taking;

o   Providing mentoring support, for young people and teachers.

This represents a remarkable local partnership which could make a profound difference to the lives of young people and community in Poole.