Max SteventonThe Power of Events (POE) has announced the expansion of its UK Schools Engagement Programme with the launch of a new Leeds region.
POE’s Schools Engagement Programme connects young people with careers in events through direct engagement with industry professionals. During the scheme’s first academic year (2024–25), the programme engaged more than 106,000 young people through 350 school visits including, Birmingham, the South Coast and Hertfordshire.
The first Leeds-based school engagements are scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with a target of reaching more than 10,000 young people in the region during the first year.
The Leeds expansion is supported by sponsorship from several event industry organisations based in the region, including Leeds Hotels and Venues Association (LHVA), PLASA, Reset Connect, Royal Armouries, Sparq Live, Sterling Event Group, TAIT, The Meetings Show and XSEM.
To mark the launch of the Leeds region, The Power of Events plans to host a reception for event industry professionals in the city in early 2026. The event will provide information about the programme, opportunities to become a volunteer schools ambassador, and networking with sponsors, supporters and partners.
Leeds Hotels and Venues Association chair Wayne Topley said, “By connecting them [students] to our dedicated event professionals and showcasing the diverse careers within our hotels and venues, we aim to inspire future talent and strengthen the city’s event landscape for years to come. We look forward to seeing the programme roll out in 2026.”
The Power of Events CEO Rick Stainton said, “The launch of the Leeds Hub marks a significant progression into the North East for one of our core projects, to engage and inspire young people across the UK about the diverse opportunities within the events industry. With the incredible support of our ambassadors and sponsors, we look forward to developing a lasting impact across the region.”