A YOUTH engagement programme set up in memory of Red Arrows pilot Jon Egging is inspiring young people at Poole’s St Aldhelm’s Academy.

The Jon Egging Trust was set up after Flt Lt Jon Egging lost his life in a crash following a display at the Bournemouth Air Festival in 2011.

Its Blue Skies programme supports young people who find themselves in difficult circumstances, helping them to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential. It has now launched officially at St Aldhelm’s in Herbert Avenue.

Over the next three years its programme leaders and partners will seek to widen the horizons of the group of 15 youngsters by helping them to develop their personal and leadership skills and aspirations.

The programme will also expose them to a host of experiences including visits to MOD Boscombe Down and sessions hosted by Wessex Archaeology and Cobham Aviation Services.

The Trust operates similar schemes across five counties with the aim of raising self-esteem and aspirations. It also helps youngsters to re-engage in education.

Kaye Jackson, the Trust’s Youth Liaison Officer for Dorset, said: “The group will take part in Level One of the Blue Skies Programme between February and July this year.

“They will enjoy a range of visits and activities linked to aviation, engineering and science, all designed to boost their confidence, enhance their presentational skills and inspire them to think about their futures. In Level Three in 2018, the pupils will also take part in a week-long work placement.”

The Blue Skies students are mainly in Year 9, aged 13 and 14, but also include some from Year 8.

St Aldhelm’s Associate Principal Sian Thomas, said: “This will be a phenomenal experience for these young people and one which we hope will see their confidence and aspirations soar.”