Youth Programmes
Every year our Youth Programmes win the trust, respect and commitment of hundreds of people aged 14 to 19. Often, they feel disengaged from, or let down by, conventional mainstream education or are outside of the training and employment arena.
Young people generally are referred to us through the strong local partnerships we have developed with secondary schools, pupil referral units, social services, the youth service and Connexions. When they first come, many start off withdrawn and lack confidence, self-esteem and motivation.
“It was just like a real job.
My supervisor gave me the skills I needed to get into motor vehicle engineering.
It was good fun working with people my own age, plus I’m getting a proper qualification."Ashley was engaged at our Pike Nook Skills Centre, Bolton
We believe that every young person that walks through our doors has something to offer and have talents or skills that have often remained hidden. Our programmes of work-based activities with a life and social skills element deliver an inspiring and challenging alternative to 14 to 19 year olds, and are designed to release and develop such talents and skills.
We offer a welcoming environment where young people, working in small groups with a dedicated training supervisor, grow their practical skills in their chosen vocational area, whether this be:
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We can also provide a range of supported work placements in real work settings. Our over-riding aim is to create the conditions whereby young people can make as much as possible of their lives. We are very successful with the vast majority of attendees turning up on time every day and being:
- Helped to work towards entry level nationally recognised vocational qualifications
- Encouraged to progress to further education
- Shown the importance of life skills such as tidying-up at the end of the day, washing equipment and overalls, answering telephone calls and promoting healthy eating at lunch times
- Provided with better opportunities to start a career.