Two schemes aimed at broadening the horizons of young people in Suffolk launched this week with the backing of politicians, educators and the business community.

The joint celebration marked the official start of the Fresh Aspirations Forum, an initiative helping young people fulfil their potential and the expansion of Swarm, a successful Norfolk-based apprenticeship scheme, into Suffolk.

Dan Poulter, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, speaking at the Framlingham Technology Centre on Thursday, said it was a “pleasure to support these two great initiatives”.

He added: “We want to help every young person to be the very best they can be to make sure they can be productive in their work and enjoy happy, successful lives.”

Fresh Aspirations Forum founder, Jenny Stockman, who is also the Framlingham Business Association chairman, said she was delighted by the support. Addressing an audience that included councillors, youth leaders and EADT editor Terry Hunt, she said the scheme was about “raising attainment, aspiration and helping young people to reach their full potential” by working with local businesses and entrepreneurs.

To the young people in the audience, Mrs Stockman said: “We’re going to scare you, excite you, take you places you’ve never been, give you privileges and opportunities.”

Tim Kerr, who joined the forum from a background in youth work, highlighted the importance of teaching skills that prepared students for a world of “exponential” change.

Robert Ashton and Chris Perry, of Swarm, explained their aim to offer young people entrepreneurial apprenticeships in a businesses setting. “It’s about showing innovations, ability, aspiration and desire – not just following orders,” said Mr Perry.

To find out more amout Fresh Apirations email admin@freshaspirations.co.uk or phone 07773 328495. The first meeting is on September 25.