The EYLA Summer 2025 Programme was a vibrant season of learning, creativity and growth.

During the summer term, our Leadership Programme focused on the Windrush Generation and its pivotal role in shaping British history. This theme culminated in a powerful creative project during the holiday programme. Guided by drama teacher Imogen Faires and inspired by Oriah Mountain Dreamer’s poem The Invitation, our young leaders performed a moving three-act play — Windrush: The Invitation, The Arrival and The Reality. The performance, attended by parents and guests with lived Windrush experiences, was deeply impactful. The cast is honoured to have been invited to perform during Black History Month at Lockton who also graciously hosted our 2025 Scholars’ Graduation — a memorable and inspiring celebration of achievement.

The wider Summer Programme offered an exciting mix of workshops and activities, including Maths, coding, creative writing, employability skills, filming, social media, arts and crafts. Participants also took part in wellbeing and resilience sessions funded by the SNG #iwill Fund, and enjoyed a cooking workshop with Chef Kevin Muhammad, as well as back-to-school preparation sessions.

Our young leaders gave back to the community through volunteering with TimeGivers, baking banana bread and preparing gift bags for elderly residents at Just Homes. Each day began with Zumba to get everyone energised, followed by board games that encouraged teamwork, social interaction and critical thinking.

The Summer School at Lancing College was another highlight, offering an action-packed schedule of farm visits, foraging, cooking, electronics, politics, philosophy, linguistics, drama and sports, along with memorable moments such as a formal supper, pizza on the beach, firepit s’mores, and nightly reflections.

We were also pleased to welcome Newham Council and the Department for Education, who visited to review our use of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) funding.

This summer also saw outstanding work experience placements with our valued partners at OMD, Acasta, Paul Weiss and RSK. We look forward to upcoming opportunities with Latham & Watkins, Weil, Mubadala, and visits to Lockton, Johnson Matthey and UCL.

Several of our young leaders also gained hands-on experience by working at Eastside, supporting staff, assisting the catering team and offering one-to-one help to peers — embodying leadership through service.

It was a summer filled with creativity, community and confidence — a true reflection of the EYLA spirit.