Our Work Ready programme boosts opportunities for young people who aren’t in employment, education or training and prepares them for the world of work.
It gives them the experience, knowledge and digital skills they need to take their first steps to a career in the digital world. So far, we’ve helped over three thousand 18-24 year olds through this programme. And we’re still going.
“I felt shut out of the design world – I needed experience but couldn’t get a foot in the door.”
Overcoming obstacles
“I studied industrial design and technology but I couldn’t get work in that area. I didn’t know anybody with design connections to get into the industry.”
“The placement gives you valuable skills to learn and take on, whatever job you go on to do.”
A chance to shine
“Work Ready courses last two weeks. You get two days in the workplace – I was based at BT Tower. Going around different teams and listening to what people do and how they run their day-to-day tasks was really useful. And there were lots of activities to get to grips with interview skills, presentation skills, how to communicate…
Our first exercise was to make a bed, as a group, in the shortest time possible. The whole exercise was about teamwork and coordinating with people. Ever had five people changing a pillowcase? Not easy. We also did a mock assessment with practice interviews. It helped me learn to stand out – you want to shine.”
Kick-starting careers
“The final day was a networking event to meet loads of people in different areas of BT and beyond. My placement had really boosted my confidence, I wasn't scared to approach people, I just felt comfortable. I connected with lots of people and that led me to getting my current job as a User Experience and User Interface designer at BT.”
“Work Ready gave me confidence to try something new.”
Going beyond expectations
“Coming in to work at BT was a bit daunting because I’d only worked in retail before. But I’m glad I pushed myself. I never thought I’d end up working for such a big company. I was proud because after my Work Ready placement, I took those new connections a step further and did something positive with it.”