For many it may feel like the school year has ended abruptly, with feelings of concern developing over which steps to take next. New College Swindon has a solution for those who are looking to carry on with an education programme from home and want to work at their own pace.
The Get Ahead programme offers a flexible range of small qualifications and experiences, which have been designed to help young people feel connected, confident and focused. As well as guidance, advice and careers information, young people can develop a whole range of skills ranging from money management to building confidence and resilience. Get Ahead is a stepping-stone to employment, full-time education or an apprenticeship.
The programme is open to those who are not working and are aged between 15 and 25 and there is also the chance to earn a £100 incentive payment upon signing up. Involving online lessons, which will take place in the afternoon, and virtual classes, there is a timetable and access to sessions. Help and guidance will be available from the Get Ahead team and can be offered in a number of ways, through video calls, text, email and phone calls during office hours (9am – 4:30pm).
The team’s aim is that by engaging with the programme, many young people will have less anxiety about returning to education or work when the time comes. They will also be on hand to support with CV writing and applying for jobs and/or apprenticeships. Angela Cornick, Get Ahead Programme Manager at New College Swindon, said: “The benefits of engaging with our programme include: keeping in touch with people, continuing to engage with education and a learning environment, and being able to earn a £100 incentive payment. Let us help to turn a worrying situation into something positive and support each other and keep in touch during this time of isolation.”
