Kieran, 23, was referred to us by his local youth club in Kensington and Chelsea. He was unemployed and seeking guidance with his next steps. He had had several jobs since leaving school, but he now wanted a role with a clear progression route that would set him up for his future. He liked the idea of using his creative side but didn’t know what options might be available to him in the construction industry.

Once enrolled on our Building Opportunities programme, Kieran made the most of his 1-2-1 coaching sessions and soon had an individual action plan (IAP) in place to help him find a career to suit his aspirations. The first step in the plan was to secure the qualifications he would need to follow a career in construction.

With a clear focus and the support of his CYT coach, Kieran managed to secure his Level 1 Health and Safety qualification and CSCS card (essential qualification needed to work on site), only 3 months after starting our programme! He then worked alongside his coach to develop his employability skills and attend CV masterclasses and mock interviews. As he ticked off the objectives in his IAP, Kieran’s confidence grew – he was finally receiving the support he had lacked and now felt equipped to reach his goal.

While researching apprenticeship opportunities with his CYT coach, Kieran was drawn to a painting and decorating apprenticeship due to the role’s creative nature. Kieran’s coach supported him step by step through the application process, which included arranging a mock interview for him and providing 1-2-1 CV advice. The support Kieran received set him up with the confidence needed to flourish in his interview, and he was offered the position!

We are so pleased to have been part of his incredible journey and that he’s finally found a career he’s passionate about!

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 NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) or at-risk of becoming NEET. Our programme targets the very hardest-to-reach and most vulnerable young people in our hub areas and encourages them to take positive next steps towards rewarding work suited to their individual abilities and interests.