FAQs: Patchwork Masterclass Programme

FAQs: Patchwork Masterclass Programme

What is the Patchwork Masterclass Programme?
The Patchwork Masterclass Programme is a series of interactive sessions designed to inspire,
educate, and equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to succeed in various fields. It
provides participants with unique opportunities to learn directly from senior leaders in politics,
business, media and public life. The programme offers practical insights, mentorship, and
opportunities for professional growth.

Who is the programme for?
The programme is open to individuals aged 18-30 from diverse and underrepresented
communities in the UK. Applicants should have an interest in politics, public service, or
leadership and a commitment to personal and professional development.

Applicants should have a genuine interest in the topics covered and a willingness to actively
participate. We are especially keen to hear from applicants who meet one or more of the
following criteria:

● Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities
● Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET)
● First generation in their family to attend higher education
● Attended a State Secondary School
● Experience in local authority care
● Estrangement from family
● Refugee or asylum-seeking status
● Primary carer responsibilities, including:
○ Sole carer of a parent(s)
○ Sole carer of a sibling if living away from home
● Low household income demonstrated by any of the following:
● Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Income Support, Job Seeker’s
Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance
● Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Universal Credit
● Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Asylum Support
● Been in receipt of free school meals
● Being in receipt of a 16-19 Bursary
● Being in receipt of Learner Support (FE 19+)
● Little to no professional experience within politics including in the Civil Service

This list is not exhaustive. If you do not meet any of the above criteria but feel passionate about
this opportunity, we still encourage you to apply. However, preference will be given to those who
can demonstrate alignment with some or all of the criteria outlined above.

Our aim is to ensure that this programme provides meaningful opportunities for those who have
historically faced barriers to accessing leadership and professional development initiatives.

How do I apply for the programme?
Applications are typically submitted online through the Patchwork Foundation website. Ensure
you complete all required fields and include any supporting documents or information
requested. Deadlines and specific application instructions are listed on the programme
webpage.

What are the selection criteria?
The selection process considers:

● Commitment to personal and professional development
● Interest in leadership, politics, or public service
● Background and experiences that align with the Foundation’s mission of empowering
underrepresented communities

Applicants who are not selected are encouraged to apply again in future cohorts.

Can I apply if I have no prior experience in politics or leadership?
The programme is designed for individuals at all stages of their journey, including those with no
prior experience but a strong interest in learning and personal growth.

Is there a cost to participate?
The Patchwork Foundation is committed to breaking down barriers to access and ensuring
equal opportunities.Participation in the programme is free for all successful applicants, thanks to
the support of supporters and partners. However, some sessions may require pre-registration,
so be sure to check the details of each event.
We have an accessibility fund designed to help remove barriers to participation for those on the
Masterclass programme, to ensure that everyone can fully participate in our programs. This
discretionary fund is available to support needs such as travel expenses. Please note that
reimbursements for travel expenses can only be provided for journeys made from outside of
London, and participants must meet the eligibility criteria to qualify for the accessibility fund.
Furthermore, travel expenses only cover costs for compulsory sessions, such as Masterclasses,
Induction, and Graduation.

Who can apply for the accessibility fund?
Applicants must be based outside of London and meet one or more of the following criteria:
● Not in Employment, Education or Training
● Low household income demonstrated by any of the following:
○ Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Income Support, Job Seeker’s
Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance

○ Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Universal Credit
○ Living with a parent/Guardian in receipt of Asylum Support
○ Been in receipt of free school meals
○ Being in receipt of a 16-19 Bursary
○ Being in receipt of Learner Support (FE 19+)
● Do not have access to familial loans or financial gifts

How accessible is the programme for individuals with diverse needs or requirements?
We are committed to making the Masterclass Programme as inclusive and accessible as
possible for all participants. If you have specific needs or requirements, we will do our utmost to
accommodate them and make reasonable adjustments to ensure a positive experience.

We understand that some venues, such as those in Westminster, may occasionally present
accessibility challenges. In such cases, we will provide advance notice and work with
participants to explore suitable solutions.

Please note that while we strive to ensure full access, there may be circumstances beyond our
control that affect the overall experience. Patchwork cannot accept responsibility for any loss of
experience resulting from such limitations, but we will always aim to minimise any impact.

If you have any concerns or require specific support, we encourage you to get in touch with our
team as early as possible so we can make necessary arrangements.

What kind of topics does the programme cover?
The masterclasses cover a broad range of topics, including leadership, diplomacy,
communication skills, community engagement, and industry-specific insights. Each session is
led by experienced professionals who share their expertise and practical advice.

What support is there for participants who do not live in London?
Each cohort typically has around eight Masterclasses throughout the year. Whilst we encourage
participants to attend these sessions in person, we understand that some may be based outside
of London. To support those participants, we offer an accessibility fund. Eligible individuals can
receive reimbursement for travel expenses incurred when traveling to London from outside the
city.

Does the programme provide one-on-one mentorship?
The programme does offer mentorship opportunities to young people in the cohort.

Does the organisation provide pastoral support?
Whilst we aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment, Patchwork does not have the
capacity to provide pastoral or emotional support. However, we can signpost participants to
external support services and resources if needed.

What should I do if I can’t attend a session after registering?
If you cannot attend a session, please inform us as soon as possible. This allows us to manage participant numbers effectively and offer your spot to someone on the waiting list. If available,
we also offer the option to attend the session virtually. Therefore, participants who are no longer
able to attend in person and wish to join remotely can inform us in advance, so we can make
the necessary arrangements.

Will I receive any certification for completing the programme?
All participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate of
participation.

How do I stay informed about upcoming masterclasses?
Follow our social media channels, subscribe to our newsletter, or regularly check our website for
updates on new sessions and opportunities.

Applications close on Sunday, December 29th, 2024 at 2:00pm, so don’t miss your chance to apply! m

If you have further questions, please contact us via [email protected]