Future Skills Training began as a not-for profit organisation in July 2005 and became a registered charity in June 2007. We have been researching and developing programmes to deliver training that meets the wide variety of development needs of young people who have been socially and educationally disadvantaged.

Phil Thain, The Chief Executive of FST, has considerable experience of managing this type of organisation as prior to setting up FST he was engaged in managing an organisation based in Lambeth delivering a range of skill focused training to at risk young people in South East London. Whilst managing FST, Phil also works directly with the young people assisting in the delivery of programmes and providing one-to-one mentoring himself.

Supporting Phil is his Office Manager, Sarah, who whilst providing administration support, also assists in delivering programmes and workshops to young people and participating in off-site trips and activities.

FST work with tutors and volunteers known to us through St Marks Church and other partner organisations. Together the aim is to help all the young people to see and realise their potential and to experience some of the amazing opportunities life has to offer. We also hope to build lasting friendships with the young people continually supporting them and enabling FST to incorporate their ideas and feedback into the development of the charity.

Currently FST delivers a Personal and Social Development Programme to a group of young people from Wandsworth's Pupil Referral Unit. Thursday sessions are based around performance workshops giving the opportunity for the young people to explore those skills and develop their imagination. On Fridays the young people are taken on trips to expose them to some of the history and different cultures of London and to aid their relationship development. During the Summer Term the focus will change slightly with Thursday sessions including a mix of drama activities and team based mental challenges and Friday sessions focusing on sport.

In addition to working with young people, FST have recently started a Mentoring Service for Adult Offenders with the aim of assisiting these offenders with their re-integration into society. The programme involves working in partnership with the Drug Action Team, Probation Service and the Metropolitan Police.

Future Skills Training is governed by a board of trustees that meets three times per year.

YOUNG PEOPLE LEARNING TO WORK TOGETHER ON THE CLIMBING WALL