The first Wednesday of term saw all Lower Sixth pupils gather in Big Classical for the launch of College’s nationally accredited Leadership and Life Skills course – a national first. The programme, aimed at helping pupils stand out from the crowd and get ahead in the modern competitive world, will equip College pupils with the kinds of skills they need to succeed in life as well to increase the relevance of their CVs to employers and universities.

It will help pupils find a balance between studying, extra-curricular activities, their interests and even their social circle while teaching specific proficiency in areas such as time management, goal setting, self discipline, emotional intelligence, leadership and relationships. Content is being drawn from Sean Covey’s book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers”, which adopts the principles of the top 10* best-selling business book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. Accredited by Ofqual, successful candidates will achieve a Certificate in Personal Effectiveness.

Running the programme will be Head of Leadership Development and Business Studies teacher Mike Todd whose background in financial services, managing professional sportsmen and commercial training programmes will bring added real-life value. Also involved is Director of Activities Dominic Faulkner who is renowned for his leadership of EVERESTMAX, one of the most ambitious and successful British expeditions in decades.

Headmaster Dr Alex Peterken commented: “Education should not just be about teaching and learning but about preparing young people for life at University and beyond. Pioneering this qualification demonstrates our commitment to giving pupils the best possible advantage to succeed in the increasingly competitive modern world. The reception of parents to the programme has been overwhelmingly positive and we look forward to sharing our experiences with other schools.”

Denys Shortt, Chairman and CEO of the multi-million pound company DCS Europe and ranked as one of Britain's Top 10 entrepreneurs by Management Today Magazine spoke to the pupils at the launch, encouraging them to grasp this opportunity with both hands. He commented: “It is high time that pupils have the chance to learn all those other skills that are rarely taught at school. Cheltenham College is offering its pupils a fantastic opportunity to stand out from the crowd and gain crucial life and career skills.”

Also speaking at the launch was company director and Chairman of Tragus Group Giles Thorley who inspired the pupils with stories of different leadership styles and anecdotes from his own successful career.

Each pupil was given a free book at the launch: “Why are Manhole Covers Round?: The Renowned Interview Success Guide to Help You Past the Famous Microsoft Interview Question”, the foreword of which is written by Denys Shortt. Armed with this, their course material, and of course, Sean Covey’s book, the pupils now embark on their first lessons.

Good luck to all!