GRADUATING from college or university and securing a first job is one of the biggest milestones in a young adult’s life.
It is not something that can be achieved easily, and takes years of hard work and dedication.
It can seem almost impossible for young people who have found it difficult to stay in education or find work.
However, thanks to a Prince’s Trust programme run by Inspire Suffolk, youngsters in Colchester have found the way to a positive future.
The team programme is one of Inspire Suffolk’s most successful programmes. Taking place over 12 weeks, it supports people not in employment, education or training, between the ages of 16 and 25.
The programmes are made up of various activities designed to increase self-confidence, motivation and self-esteem.
The Colchester group started the programme by spending a week away on a residential trip at an activity centre. This part of the programme allowed the team members to try new things, break away from their current situation and learn how to work with others.
They took part in various activities including canoeing, crate stacking, and low ropes.
After forming as a team, the young people came back ready to take on a project in their community.
They chose to support the YMCA Communal Gardens in Colchester, as it was where the programme was based.
They worked hard to clear the garden areas, make planters and plant flowers to brighten up the area for people who make use of it.
The group also took part in work placements with businesses, undertaking a range of roles at places including Oxfam, the British Heart Foundation, and Teybrooks Builders.
Work experience was also offered at the PDSA Charity Shop in Colchester, and one member has been offered voluntary work as staff were so impressed with her work.
Sharon Michell, team leader at Inspire Suffolk, said: “We have been so amazed by this group of young people and what they’re capable of.
“Each has had challenges of their own to overcome and all of them have inspired me so much.
“The programme offers so many opportunities for the participants to develop, build confidence and take a new direction – we are so proud.”
Other aspects of the course include planning for the future by improving and creating CVs, offering advice for applying for jobs, and hosting mock and real-life interviews for potential jobs.
As part of the programme, the group decided to support the children’s ward at Colchester Hospital by visiting the ward before Christmas dressed as elves and giving presents to the children and their families.
The last week of the programme involved a graduation presentation to family, friends and employers at the YMCA in Colchester.
The students gained Employability Level 1 and 2 qualifications.
One team member, Thomas Conolly, 20, was unsuccessfully searching for work before he joined Inspire Suffolk’s programme.
Although Thomas was trying his best, his low confidence and self-esteem was getting the better of him and he decided to join the Prince’s Trust programme in Colchester.
Sharon Michell added: “When the programme started he was still feeling shy and lacking in confidence, and was the quiet one in the group.
“On the outward bound residential trip, he was feeling anxious, but throughout the week Thomas found himself engaging in activities that he would have never done before, which helped to bring him out of his comfort zone and gain more confidence.
“As his confidence grew, he become a natural leader for the group, communicating more with his peers who found his guidance and advice effective and they started to follow his lead.
“Thomas really enjoyed the activities that took him out of his comfort zone he took on activities like crate stacking, low ropes, tree climbing and much more.
“The residential part of the programme really helped Thomas realise his full potential. He has been able to use this as a turning point to realise what he is capable of.
“He took the leader role in the team’s community project as part of the course and always ensured that everyone in the group has a part to play.
“ Thomas is now searching for his next step after the programme with a clear idea what he wants to move onto now.”
Thomas added: “Without the team programme, I would never have put myself out of my comfort zone.
“I now believe in myself and am pushing myself to do something positive.”
Inspire Suffolk’s next group of Prince’s Trust programmes begin on January 21 with the closest running in Clacton.
Find out more at www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk.
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