At 17 years old, Daniel, a student at a Haringey school, didn’t want to commit to a university course he wasn’t passionate about but wasn’t sure about the alternatives available. This changed when he attended an Introduction to Apprenticeships session by CYT, which sparked a new sense of direction for Daniel and inspired him to sign up to our Pathways to Professional Careers programme to explore apprenticeship pathways further.

After hearing his CYT coach’s introduction session, Daniel identified project management as a potential career path. With a longstanding interest in leadership and organisation, he was curious about how these skills could be applied within the built environment industry. To support his interest, his coach arranged a work experience placement where he shadowed civil engineers, architects and project managers. During this time, Daniel attended design meetings, visited active sites, and even delivered a presentation on cost management and project control. The experience gave him a well-rounded understanding of the project manager’s role and revealed how his natural strengths – leadership, communication, and teamwork – aligned closely with the demands of the job.

We connected Daniel to a Live Vacancy event – an employer-led session introducing young people to specific apprenticeship opportunities. He met with employers, gained valuable insight into what they look for in new hires, and learned about company cultures. These activities helped prepare him to explore his next tangible next steps. Continuing to throw himself into the programme, meeting relatable volunteers and taking part in mock interviews, Daniel’s confidence soared and he felt ready to start applying for apprenticeships.

Daniel’s CYT coach provided ongoing application support through assisting with finalising his CV and writing cover letters, and demonstrating how the application approach will be different for each employer. Daniel then applied for several Level 6 degree apprenticeships in Project Management and received offers from two employers. He chose to accept an offer from Storey Project!

Daniel’s future in the industry is sure to be incredibly bright, and we can’t wait to see where his journey will take him next!

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 Pathways to Professional Careers programme supports students (aged 16-18) interested in pursuing professional pathways, with a priority focus on those from disadvantaged backgrounds and underrepresented groups. Research shows that young people from well-off backgrounds are 80% more likely to be in a professional job. Pathways aims to level the apprenticeship playing field, helping young people overcome barriers and access rewarding higher-level and degree apprenticeship opportunities and professional careers.