GRAHAM has successfully delivered its Beacon Programme in Manchester, a targeted employability initiative designed to support neurodivergent and Special Educational Needs (SEN) students by building confidence, developing skills and helping them explore future career pathways.
Delivered in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), Konnect Radio, The Message Trust, and Kinlan Brickwork, the programme offered a unique three‑part work experience model. Students gained hands‑on insight into the construction industry through on‑site placements at GRAHAM’s Boddingtons project; explored broadcasting and media production through studio‑based experience with Konnect Radio; and developed creativity, teamwork and self‑expression through music production, songwriting and performance at The Message Trust’s Tribe Academy.
A Celebration of Achievement
On Thursday 7 May, the programme concluded with a celebration event held at The Message Trust. Friends, families, teachers and parents gathered to celebrate how far the 11 Beacon delegates had come over the course of the programme.
The event featured welcome remarks, live interviews, band and music production group performances, certificate presentations and a highlights video capturing the delegates’ journey and personal growth.
The centrepiece of the evening saw students perform their original songs ‘We All Have A Voice’ and ‘Watch Me’ live on stage, accompanied by The Message Trust’s house band. This was a powerful and emotional moment for many who had never performed publicly before.
Together, the songs told a compelling story of confidence found, voices discovered and potential realised. ‘We All Have a Voice’ became an anthem of inclusion and unity, celebrating the importance of being heard and valued regardless of background or additional needs, while highlighting the strength of teamwork, self‑expression and hope for the future. ‘Watch Me’ built on this journey as a bold declaration of self‑belief and ambition, challenging assumptions and showcasing personal transformation from uncertainty to pride. Together, the performances captured the delegates’ progress through the Beacon Programme – from initial nerves and self‑doubt to standing confidently on stage, owning their achievements and showing what they are capable of.
Stephen Van den Hoek, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said:
The Beacon Programme matters because it’s about seeing the whole young person. While construction provides a valuable insight into our industry, working with local partners allows us to broaden horizons by developing confidence, creativity and transferable skills in new and inclusive ways. By combining construction with media and music, we’re creating opportunities that help young people discover their strengths, find their voice and imagine futures they may never have thought possible.
One of the most moving reflections came from a parent, who said:
These guys and this programme have genuinely changed my son’s life and has had such a positive impact on him! Historically, my lad has never ever walked on a stage or even held a mic, he would be part of the tech team in things like the school nativity, so I’ve never had the chance to see anything LIKE THIS!
It’s just been incredible watching his confidence grow from point blank, refusing to take part just a few weeks ago to putting on this performance is incredible every single person is wonderful here, my lad has learnt some amazing skills and friends for life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Reflections from Programme Partners
Sally Cheshire, Partnership and Quality Lead Inclusion at GMCA, said:
What an absolutely groundbreaking sector-leading programme indeed – not only in construction but in creative and media too. Linking the sectors together to inspire young people is totally awe-inspiring.
I have loved each and every part of the programme, from the planning hours, the work experience days and the presentation evening – seeing the change in the young people is exactly why we do it – it’s not about gaining awards or recognition; it’s about seeing the actual physical and mental changes in the young people over the three weeks. We really are changing lives with this programme. The start of something very special indeed here in GM and UK-wide!
Emma Owen, Head of Youth Engagement at The Message Trust, said:
What a privilege for The Message Trust to partner with GRAHAM and Konnect Radio on the Beacon Programme investing into year 11 Manchester-based SEN students by giving them opportunities to learn a new skill, be creative with music, become confident individuals and explore their futures.
Gareth Cottrell, Founder and CEO at Konnect Radio, added:
Konnect Radio was delighted to work on this exciting project supporting young adults through media training. It was a real honour to welcome the group into our studios and watch their confidence, creativity and communication skills grow within just a few hours of arriving. The experience brought a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the entire Konnect Radio team.
Following his work experience with Kinlan Brickwork at the Boddingtons construction site, Beacon delegate, Rory, has been offered an apprenticeship with the company. Rory will be among the first in the UK to take on the new Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship.
Dominic Rossi, Part Owner and Construction Director at Kinlan Brickwork, said:
We’re always interested in getting involved with the local community especially in Manchester where a good portion of our work takes place. What we didn’t know though was how practical and experiential it would be for the attendees. Great to have met such passionate and driven people from the community and from GRAHAM; all with a real drive to better the education and future of the students. Even more rewarding to see how much they enjoyed it. Looking forward to being involved further.
The Beacon Programme is more than work experience. It’s a celebration of potential, a challenge to perceptions and a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when young people are given the right opportunities, support and belief.
Watch the highlights video below, which features the two songs the students created, to see all of this in action.
Click here to read the first article introducing the Manchester Beacon Programme.