Seven students from Thornleigh Sixth Form College took part in the CAFOD Young Leaders Training Day held at Loreto Sixth Form College, Manchester, on Thursday 16th October 2025. The event was coordinated by Kirstie Hutchinson, CAFOD’s Young Leaders Programme Coordinator and brought together students from 6 Sixth Form colleges across the region.

 The training day aimed to inspire and equip young people to become compassionate leaders, rooted in faith and social responsibility. Through interactive sessions, group discussions, and practical activities, students explored what it means to “look out for the other” - responding to the needs of those who are poor, disadvantaged, or affected by crises around the world.

CAFOD’s Young Leaders Programme offers ongoing training, volunteering opportunities, and guidance to help young people develop the skills and attitudes needed to make a difference. The initiative encourages students to take action within their schools and communities, promoting justice, solidarity and care for creation.

For the Thornleigh students, the day was both inspiring and transformative. It gave them the chance to connect with like-minded young people and to begin their journey as advocates for change.

Overall, the event was a fruitful and uplifting experience for more than 30 young leaders, who left motivated to continue CAFOD’s mission of building a fairer and more compassionate world.