When we first met Ian*, he was 17 and studying at a college in Westminster. He was keen to secure an electrical apprenticeship but lacked confidence and was unsure of his ability to follow this career path, so wanted help configuring his next steps.

To support Ian, we engaged him on our intensive employability coaching programme for college students. He worked closely with his dedicated coach to create an individual action plan, which included 1-2-1 confidence-building coaching, group employability sessions such as CV masterclasses, and support with securing his Level 1 Health & Safety qualification. The programme also provided Ian with plenty of contact with industry volunteers, enabling him to interact directly with employers, learn more about industry roles and further build his self-confidence.

A major turning point for Ian was a week-long work experience placement hosted by a major social value and development consultancy firm. A small group of young people were given an overview of different construction roles and the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of industry professionals – from roofers to architects – learning about their day-to-day duties. A particular highlight was a site visit during which the students met several project managers and electrical subcontractors, learning about their roles and hearing about apprenticeship vacancies they had available. An electrical apprenticeship immediately caught Ian’s attention.

After the placement, Ian and his coach worked together to submit an application, and Ian was selected for an in-person interview. While he was not offered the apprenticeship on this occasion, he had impressed the employer with his enthusiasm and confidence both during the site visit and at interview. Eager to take him on, the organisation contacted him again as soon as a new vacancy became available – and offered Ian a Level 3 electrical apprenticeship! Ian was delighted and is now thriving in his new role. We wish him all the best on his career journey.

*Name changed to protect anonymity

Construction Youth Trust works in local communities across London and North Kent, targeting areas with a high proportion of low-income households and significant construction and regeneration.

Our College Support Programme targets young people in our hub areas who are studying at college and looking for career guidance. It is designed to support these young people to take positive next steps towards rewarding careers in the construction and built environment sector that are well suited to their individual abilities and interests.