Oracy Qualifications for Year 10s at Lawn Manor


In October, 18 Year 10 students from Lawn Manor Academy in Swindon took part in a week-long English Speaking Board (ESB) programme aimed at developing their communication, language and employability skills.


Through participation in the programme the students gained a deeper understanding of their desired career paths, and practiced verbal communication while discussing their chosen career in an interview style assessment. 

The week began with icebreaker activities and opportunities for the students to get to know each other in a fun and informal manner. Throughout the programme they explored their interests and prospective career fields, culminating in their individual presentations at the end of the week. We are thrilled to share that the students achieved fantastic results, including 14 Distinctions and Merit Pluses, and look forward to seeing their next steps as they continue to explore their chosen career paths. 

Imrana Ali

Progression Coach

Swindon and Wiltshire

Students in a construction workshop observing a bricklaying demonstration.

National Apprenticeship Week

By Bronagh Sumner • February 10, 2026
National Apprenticeships Week is an opportunity to highlight the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, employers and the wider economy – and their vital role in improving social mobility.
Hand holding

Working at Villiers Park: Josie and Clara on Becoming Progression Coaches After the Programme

By Bronagh Sumner • January 14, 2026
Discover how Villiers Park alumni Josie and Clara came full circle, returning as Progression Coaches to support students through the programme that shaped them.

Staff Spotlight: Jenny Parr

By Bronagh Sumner • December 22, 2025
Jenny joined our team 15 years ago and has worked in various roles from Progression Coach to Programmes Manager and now Strategic Projects Manager. Jenny is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of others and supporting young people to reach their fullest potential.
A lecture hall presentation with presenters on the stage and an audience in curved rows.

University Insights at Canterbury Christ Church University

By Clara Smith • December 17, 2025
In November we visited Canterbury Christ Church for a University Insight Day giving Future Leaders the chance to explore campus life first-hand.

Advice from our community

By Bronagh Sumner • December 17, 2025
We have recently been sharing the wonderful stories of those who have been a part of Villiers Park over the years.
Offshore wind turbines with a construction platform in the ocean under a clear blue sky.

Alumni Spotlight: Lewis

By Bronagh Sumner • December 12, 2025
" [Villiers Park] offered me the tools that helped me settle into university life quicker, something that many young students lack and struggle with throughout their time at uni. "
Exterior view of a large, ornate building with a clock tower and a green lawn in front.

Opening Doors: How Villiers Park and Trinity College, Cambridge Are Tackling Barriers to Higher Education

By Bronagh Sumner • December 11, 2025
Villiers Park is delighted to continue its collaboration with Trinity College Cambridge, a partnership which supports hundreds of young people from under-represented backgrounds every year, breaking down barriers into higher education.

Alumni Spotlight: Sam

By Bronagh Sumner • December 8, 2025
" I remember most the residentials, with the opportunity to experience stretching and enriching lectures, activities and tasks in a friendly and warmly academic environment. "
A group of people sitting at a table having a discussion in a bright room. One person is in a wheelchair.

A trip to Sopra Steria in Edinburgh

December 5, 2025
In November, 18 Year 12 students from our Tyneside hub attended an Employer Insight Day at Sopra Steria’s Edinburgh office. As our principal partner, we work closely with Sopra Steria and were delighted to offer these students the opportunity to explore the variety of career paths available within the Edinburgh office and beyond.

Alumni Spotlight: Joanna

By Bronagh Sumner • November 26, 2025
"It’s incredible to come full circle. Villiers Park supported me when I needed it most, and now I have the privilege of helping to make those same opportunities available to others.”