Ryan, 18 from North Kent, had fallen out of education and was heading down the wrong path. He was referred onto our Building Opportunities programme by North Kent Youth Justice Service to help him get back on track.

Our first step was to help Ryan develop a meaningful career goal, which he identified as discovering a trade he was passionate about in the construction and built environment industry. To achieve this, we arranged a practical taster day with one of our employer partners which opened his eyes to a range of roles such as steel form and groundwork. Employers were so impressed with his enthusiasm and skills, they offered to place him on their Level 1 Health and Safety course and even paid for his CSCS test!

We also provided Ryan with bespoke 1-2-1 employability support, helping him get work ready by developing his CV and practicing interview techniques.

Through receiving the right support, Ryan’s confidence and self-belief soared. His determination to turn his life around has been admirable. He continues to work with his coach to develop his work-readiness and we are currently supporting him to look for multi trade opportunities in the industry. He is excited to explore the potential career paths that lie ahead of him and take his next step into the world of work.

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.

Building Opportunities is an intensive coaching programme for disadvantaged young people who are unemployed or at-risk of falling out of the system. Our programme targets the very hardest-to-reach young people in our hub areas and encourages them to take positive next steps towards rewarding work suited to their individual abilities and interests.