I have spent more than 25 years working at the point where education, employability and opportunity meet, and I have rarely seen the stakes as high as they are today.

As I prepare to take up the role of chief executive at City Year UK this August, one number sits at the front of my mind. For the first time since 2013, more than a million young people aged 16 to 24 are not in education, employment or training. According to the Office for National Statistics, that is roughly one in eight of an entire generation standing outside the world of work and learning.

We have grown used to describing this as a social crisis, and it is. But I want to make the case to Britain’s business leaders that it is also, squarely, a business one. A government-commissioned review has estimated that youth disengagement now costs the country around £125 billion a year in lost productivity, weaker tax receipts and higher demand on public services. That is more than England spends on education. No employer, and certainly no small or medium-sized business trying to hire, is insulated from a figure of that scale.

A shrinking, skills-misaligned talent pool

For SMEs the implications are immediate and practical. When nine in ten businesses report that entry-level candidates arrive without the skills they need, recruitment becomes slower, costlier and riskier. At the same time, expectations on firms to show genuine social impact have never been higher. The temptation is to treat these as two separate problems, one for the finance director and one for the sustainability report. In truth they are the same problem, and they can share the same solution.

The crucial point, and the one I most want employers to grasp, is that the barriers holding young people back rarely appear at the point of hiring. By the time a young person reaches the labour market, the issues that limit their employability, low attendance, low confidence, weak foundational skills, are often already entrenched. If we wait until the graduate milk round or the apprenticeship application to intervene, we are intervening years too late.

What near-peer mentoring actually changes

City Year UK exists to intervene earlier. We place trained 18 to 25-year-olds as full-time, near-peer mentors in schools serving disadvantaged communities, where they support pupils at risk of falling behind academically or socially. Over 15 years, our 1,800 mentors have worked one to one and in small groups with more than 17,000 children, and contributed to a more positive school culture for over 136,000 pupils.

The results matter to educators and employers alike. Mid-year evaluation shows that 80 per cent of the pupils we support say their mentor helps them feel happier and more comfortable at school. Modelling suggests that sustained improvements in maths and English attainment could add £5.48 million in lifetime earnings across a single cohort, and generate a 29 per cent positive social return on investment if support continues through to Year 11.

There is a second dividend that businesses tend to overlook. Our mentors are young adults too, and they finish the year with an accredited leadership qualification, stronger employability skills and professional networks. More than nine in ten of them are in education, employment or training within three months of completing their City Year. In plain business terms, this is a long-horizon talent pipeline with measurable downstream impact at both ends.

From sponsorship to strategy

I am encouraged that corporate engagement is already shifting from ad-hoc charitable giving towards integrated workforce strategy. Leading employers are beginning to see three value drivers clearly: shaping the skills and aspirations of future entrants, reducing the risk of long-term economic inactivity in their communities, and delivering tangible, measurable social outcomes rather than vague goodwill.

The most effective partnerships go further than funding. When businesses actively engage with our work, through workplace visits that demystify industries, employee mentoring, employability workshops on CVs and interviews, or simple insight into apprenticeships and entry-level routes, they help young people translate aspiration into opportunity. For many, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, it is the first time they can clearly picture a path into work. This is precisely the moment when government efforts, such as the recent £725 million package to expand apprenticeships, need employers standing alongside them rather than waiting downstream.

The smart thing, not just the right thing

The companies that lead over the next decade will be those that treat social investment not as peripheral philanthropy but as core infrastructure for future growth. In an economy where skills, inclusion and productivity are so tightly bound together, supporting young people into education, employment and training is no longer only the right thing to do. It is increasingly the smart thing to do.

As I step into this role, my ask of Britain’s business community is straightforward. Look at that £125 billion figure, look at your own hiring challenges, and recognise that the two are connected. Then help us reach further into the schools that need us most. The talent you will be competing for in five years is sitting in a classroom today. The question is whether anyone is investing in them now.

Victoria Head

Victoria Head is joining City Year Uk the beginning of August as Chief Executive Officer, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience across education, employability, skills development, youth services, and social impact.

Throughout her career, Victoria has focused on creating opportunities that enable young people and communities to thrive. She has a strong track record of leading large-scale transformation programmes, securing and managing multi-million-pound contracts, and building strategic partnerships across government, education, and the voluntary sector. Her expertise spans workforce development, social mobility, and systems change, with a consistent focus on improving outcomes for young people.

Prior to joining City Year UK, Victoria was Strategic Director for Learning, Skills and Employability at Catch22, where she led a broad portfolio of programmes spanning education, employability, and social inclusion. She has also held senior leadership roles in national employability and skills organisations, driving innovation, sustainable growth, and high-quality frontline delivery.

Alongside her executive career, Victoria is a Trustee of Changing Lives and a Council Member of UK Year of Service, reflecting her long-standing commitment to strengthening the social impact sector.

As CEO of City Year UK, she is focused on expanding the organisation’s reach and deepening its impact, ensuring more young people are supported to succeed in education, employment, and life.

For more information on how to be involved, please contact Victoria on

vhead@cityyear.org.uk

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BILLUND, Denmark — The LEGO Group has unveiled a five-set wave built entirely around Olivia Rodrigo, making the 23-year-old Grammy Award-winning singer the first music artist in the company’s history to receive multiple dedicated LEGO sets, the Danish toy company announced Monday.

The LEGO Group and Olivia Rodrigo announced a new collaboration that invites fans to step inside the Grammy-award winning, multi-platinum artist’s universe across five collectible LEGO sets filled with hidden references, iconic looks and stories from every era of her career.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DaNZKMVDMAX/?hl=en&img_index=1

The full collection launches globally on August 1 at LEGO.com, LEGO stores and select retailers, with all five sets already available for pre-order. The line sits under the LEGO Editions banner, a relatively new product platform the company launched to connect fans with real-world athletes and cultural figures through collectible display-worthy builds. Until now, LEGO Editions had focused entirely on sport, encompassing football, Formula 1 and other athletic themes. The Rodrigo collaboration marks the platform’s first expansion into music.

The announcement arrived fresh off the release of Rodrigo’s third studio album, “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love,” which debuted at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200 in its first week of release, posting the biggest opening week of any solo artist in 2026 so far. The timing of the collection alongside a new album cycle positions the partnership as a major pop culture event rather than a standard licensed product announcement.

Speaking about the collaboration, Olivia Rodrigo said: “I’ve always loved hiding little details and meanings in my music and videos, so working with the LEGO team to bring something that fans can actually build and explore together has been so exciting. There are so many pieces of my world inside these sets — little nods to songs, memories, outfits and moments that mean a lot to me.”

Julia Goldin, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at the LEGO Group, said: “Olivia Rodrigo has created a world that fans feel deeply connected to — one filled with emotion, individuality, creativity and discovery. With this collection, we wanted to celebrate the passion Olivia brings to every lyric, every hidden clue and every album, while giving fans a meaningful way to connect with her. This collaboration is about more than recreating moments — it’s about inspiring fans to build, explore and express themselves through storytelling and creative building.”

The lineup includes the Olivia Rodrigo’s Flower Bouquet at $49.99, a 400-piece build centered around a purple flower made from electric guitars, along with nods to Rodrigo’s Filipino heritage and hidden references for fans to decode. Olivia Rodrigo’s Vinyl at $34.99 is a 360-piece brick-built record display inspired by her three chart-topping albums, while the GUTS World Tour gets its own tribute in Olivia Rodrigo’s Concert Moon at $49.99, a 670-piece set inspired by the viral concert moment in which Rodrigo soared above the crowd on a giant crescent moon.

The Concert Moon set includes hidden drawers revealed by pushing a lever on top, plus several photo holders allowing fans to customize the display. Rodrigo’s minifigure in that set recreates the outfit she wore during the GUTS World Tour shows, featuring dual-molded legs, side leg printing and a high degree of detail.

The two larger sets round out the wave at higher price points. Olivia Rodrigo’s Secret Storage at $79.99 and 1,085 pieces combines iconography from across the collection, including a guitar, a record, her red megaphone, a butterfly and stars, and continues the hidden storage motif built into the Concert Moon set. The largest set, Olivia Rodrigo’s Dual Guitar at $119.99, completes the lineup for collectors seeking the full range.

The new LEGO Botanicals and LEGO Editions Olivia Rodrigo Flower Bouquet is described as the first partner-specific Botanicals set, with both the Editions and Botanicals logos appearing on the packaging. The 400-piece set features a striking purple flower made from electric guitars, with the collection targeting ages 9 to 14.

The scope of the collaboration is notable even by the standards of LEGO Editions, which has previously released multiple sets for high-profile athletes. From a football perspective, Lionel Messi has maxed out at three LEGO sets under the Editions banner, Cristiano Ronaldo has two, while Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior have just one apiece. The theme’s Formula 1 helmets encompass four different drivers. By contrast, the Rodrigo wave focuses entirely on one artist across five distinct sets at different price points.

This makes Rodrigo the first music artist to receive multiple dedicated LEGO sets, following one-off releases for the likes of BTS, The Beatles, Elvis Presley and the Spice Girls.

Reaction to the announcement has been sharply divided along demographic lines. Within Rodrigo’s fan base, known as Livies, the response has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, with comments across Instagram and social media expressing excitement about both the sets themselves and what they described as the hidden meanings and callbacks embedded throughout the designs. Outside that fan base, particularly in LEGO-focused communities where older collectors tend to skew male, the announcement has generated significant skepticism, with some questioning the commercial logic of dedicating five sets to a single artist and others expressing frustration that the resources were not directed toward relaunching classic LEGO themes like Castle or Space Police.

Defenders of the collaboration have pushed back firmly on those criticisms, pointing to the strategic rationale behind targeting a demographic the LEGO Group has historically struggled to reach. One industry observer noted that the sets are aimed at girls aged 9 to 14 and people into contemporary pop music, describing the targeting as dead-on for LEGO’s strategy of expanding its audience into different passion points and interests.

The five-set wave opens pre-orders immediately, with the first three sets available now at LEGO.com ahead of the global August 1 launch.

LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers he plans to play elsewhere in the 2026-27 season, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated free agency periods in recent NBA history and sparking intense speculation about a possible move to the Golden State Warriors to team with Stephen Curry.

The 41-year-old superstar, entering his 24th season, is exploring opportunities beyond Los Angeles after eight seasons with the Lakers. League sources indicate the Warriors are among the teams actively pursuing James, who could form a formidable partnership with Curry in what would be a blockbuster pairing of two all-time greats.

James’ decision not to return to the Lakers has opened the door for several contenders. The Warriors, fresh off acquiring Kristaps Porzingis and navigating roster changes, view James as a potential missing piece for another championship push. Draymond Green’s decision to decline his player option has further increased flexibility for Golden State.

A James-to-Warriors move would create immediate buzz, pairing the four-time MVP with Curry, Klay Thompson’s former backcourt mate in spirit if not reality. The duo could revitalize Golden State’s offense while providing veteran leadership to a young supporting cast.

However, significant hurdles remain. Salary cap constraints, luxury tax implications and James’ preference for winning contention windows complicate any deal. James is eligible for various exceptions, but a max-level contract would require creative roster construction.

The Lakers’ era with James featured multiple deep playoff runs, including a championship in 2020. His departure marks the end of a transformative chapter for the franchise, which must now rebuild around younger talent while managing cap space.

For Golden State, the pursuit aligns with a strategy of blending experience and youth. Recent additions like Porzingis provide frontcourt depth, and James could elevate the team’s ceiling in the competitive Western Conference.

Speculation has intensified on betting markets and social platforms, with Golden State frequently mentioned alongside other suitors like Miami or Cleveland. No deal is imminent, as free agency negotiations are just beginning.

James has consistently expressed a desire to compete at the highest level. At 41, his game has evolved with emphasis on playmaking and efficiency rather than explosive athleticism, making him a fit for motion offenses like Golden State’s.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr has long admired James’ basketball IQ. A reunion with Curry could produce highlight-reel moments reminiscent of past NBA Finals clashes, now as teammates.

Financially, James’ move would carry implications for both sides. The Lakers retain bird rights but must pivot strategically. Golden State, already in luxury tax territory, would need to manage apron penalties carefully.

League-wide, James’ availability elevates free agency intrigue. Other stars and role players may adjust decisions based on his landing spot.

James’ career statistics and accolades place him among the greatest. Five championships, four Finals MVPs and 20 All-Star selections underscore his impact. A potential move west would add another layer to his legacy.

Golden State’s recent moves, including Porzingis extension, signal intent to contend. Pairing James with Curry and supporting pieces could create a formidable trio, though age and injury risks factor into projections.

Sources close to the situation emphasize James’ focus on family and winning. Southern California roots may influence decisions, but basketball fit takes precedence.

The NBA’s collective bargaining agreement shapes possibilities. Mid-level exceptions and trade exceptions offer pathways, but max contracts require careful planning.

Analysts debate the on-court fit. James’ versatility complements Curry’s shooting, potentially unlocking new offensive schemes. Defensive questions persist given ages, but experience could mitigate concerns.

Off the court, James’ business empire and media ventures add complexity. A high-profile move would generate massive attention, benefiting both player and franchise.

As negotiations unfold, uncertainty prevails. James has until free agency opens to weigh options fully.

The Warriors’ pursuit reflects ambition despite recent challenges. Missing playoffs last season heightened urgency for roster upgrades.

League insiders note multiple teams monitoring James closely. His decision will ripple across the league, influencing trades and signings.

James’ agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, has orchestrated previous moves with precision. Strategic timing maximizes leverage.

For fans, the possibility of James and Curry teaming up captivates imaginations. Historic rivals as teammates would produce compelling narratives.

Golden State ownership and front office have shown willingness for bold moves. Whether James fits their timeline remains a key question.

As the offseason progresses, updates will emerge from reliable reporting. For now, speculation fuels excitement around one of basketball’s biggest names.

The 2026-27 season promises drama regardless of James’ choice. His legacy ensures any destination becomes a focal point.

Golden State’s interest underscores the Warriors’ commitment to contention. Pairing two icons could redefine the franchise’s next chapter.

James has defied age norms throughout his career. Continued elite production seems likely, though workload management will be essential.

The Lakers’ response will shape their future. Young talent and draft assets provide building blocks post-James.

NBA free agency remains fluid. James’ situation dominates discussions as teams finalize plans.

Ultimately, James will choose the best fit for his goals. Whether Golden State or elsewhere, his impact will be felt leaguewide.

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