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Phillip Parramore kindly blogged for us this week...

When I read Mel's (my daughter) blog last week, it confirmed that it would be right to offer my own thoughts and a massive amount of gratitude for how Yew Tree has helped Melissa and many more young people, develop and grow, and to give them hope that they can achieve fabulous things.

Seven years ago Melissa joined the Aim Higher cohort at Horbury School, to give her experiences of higher education and vocational opportunities that otherwise she may have never experienced.

A young, quiet, reserved child who needed a break, got a break! By being introduced to the Yew Tree experience.  Without that I have my doubts as to whether Mel would this weekend be starting this new phase of her life 200 miles south and with the confidence to strive for so much more and a bright, promising future.

I don't know what it is, but something magical happens at Yew Tree sessions. Something really sparkly I suppose, that puts a glint in young people's eyes.  Not always has Mel found it easy to travel to sessions, but with grit and determination, she has invariably made it there and back.  As a parent you sometimes wonder how worthwhile activities are. Travelling and picking up on cold winter nights can be a thankless task. But always I knew that Mel would return home in a far more relaxed and contented mood than she had set out with just a few hours before.  And so it has always been worth it.  

Do not doubt that what you learn at Yew Tree is massive! The opportunity to write, rehearse, act, team build, lead, mentor, problem solve and help others (I've probably missed some more stuff) are just pure gold to employers and will so help you get to where you desire to be.

Yew Tree isn't of course an answer to everything that life will throw at you. But do not doubt that it can contribute many things that will help young people to make positive steps.

As Mel starts her university life, and with it a very different adult world, I just want, nay need to say a simple, huge thank you to Yew Tree leaders and friends for doing your bit to make this possible.

And for those of you who have hopes for the future, yes good things can happen and Yew Tree can undoubtedly help you get there.

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