The Aurora Group is one of the UK’s leading independent providers of education, care and support services for children and young people with additional needs.
The partnership was founded by Mike Taylor, learning & development manager for Sodexo’s Government business when he met an Aurora Foxes Academy student on placement at a military site where Sodexo provided food and facilities management services.
He introduced The Aurora Group to hospitality charity Springboard, resulting in ongoing tailored training and work experience opportunities for Aurora students from predominantly its Foxes Academy in Somerset.
Sodexo-led initiatives have included a two-day ‘takeover’ of the Foxes Academy in 2022 where 12 Sodexo employees including chefs and subject matter experts from its Government business delivered a programme of 30 one-hour interactive and practical learning experiences. In 2025, a similar one-day event was held.
Sodexo volunteers continue to support Aurora Foxes students with career talks, CV writing sessions and interview preparation as well as Q&A sessions on Sodexo and the opportunities it can offer.
Paul Anstey, chief executive Government and Energy & Resources, said: “We are proud of our work with The Aurora Group over the last ten years which has been driven by Mike. By working together we have helped former Foxes Academy students find employment within the hospitality industry some of which have found positions within Sodexo teams at a number of our client sites.
“At Sodexo we are focused on creating workplaces where everyone can belong, thrive and progress. Our Social Impact Pledge 2030, includes a dedicated 'People' pathway focused on commitments to help drive social mobility in communities across the country with colleagues like Mike we are helping create meaningful opportunities for a wide range of groups. We look forward to continuing to work with The Aurora Group for many more years.”