Jasmine, 18, was studying Level 2 Electrical Installation at City of Westminster College and wanted to find an apprenticeship after finishing her course. However, she didn’t know where to start and was struggling to find opportunities or get interviews. When her college told her about the employability and recruitment support offered through our Building Opportunities programme, she immediately signed up.

To help her gain real world-of-work experience, Jasmine’s CYT coach arranged a five-day placement with one of our employer partners. There, she shadowed a range of trades including electricians, fire alarm technicians and air conditioning mechanics – giving her a solid introduction to the broad range of careers available in construction. From installing CCTV systems to picking up practical advice on CV writing and applications, Jasmine made the most of every opportunity.

During her time on our programme, Jasmine attended one of our employer partners, Skanska’s Live Vacancies Day. It was there that she learnt about the Level 3 Electrical & Mechanical Apprenticeship Skanska were advertising- the exact area Jasmine was interested in.

Jasmine came away from the event, feeling inspired and motivated to apply to the opportunity at Skanska. She knew they were the right company for her as they had long-term career pathways available.

With her freshly created CV and support from her coach, she applied the very next day. Jasmine was invited to an online screening followed by an in-person assessment day – this involved taking part in group activities, demonstrating teamwork and communication skills as well as a 1-1 interview. Thanks to the individual support from her coach – practicing interview techniques, working on answer structuring, and taking part in a mock assessment – she was thoroughly prepared.

Jasmine navigated the recruitment process seamlessly and was offered the role, securing one of only two apprenticeship spots available. She was over the moon! She has since completed her Level 2 Electrical Installation qualification at college and has started her apprenticeship with Skanska this month. A huge congratulations to her!

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 Building Opportunities 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.