Project Positive success sees care leavers gain work experience, improve future employability and embark on apprenticeship opportunities

Launched in 2021, the project partnered by Herts County Council and Amazing Apprenticeships improves the prospects of care experienced school leavers.

Designed principally to match local, high-quality apprenticeship opportunities with ambitious young care leavers and offer assistance to employers keen to promote social mobility in their business, the project has also evolved to offer support, advice, work experience and dedicated resources to would-be applicants from a care background to better prepare them for a future career.

“Working with employers and candidates it soon became apparent that the young care leavers both need and deserve advice, support and inspiration tailored to their unique situation,” says Lucy Springett, Projects and Partnerships Manager. Understanding the basics around CV compilation, interview technique and gaining advice on applications from employers currently recruiting has been incredibly motivating for the young people involved in the project.”

A dedicated portal on the Amazing Apprenticeships website is now available to all care leavers in the county. Including 8 five-minute explainer films, inspiring hints and tips, practical ideas such as CV support, how and where to search, and financial advice, each resource is customised to better help those emerging from the care system.

“We quickly realised that we were experiencing most success with individuals taking things one step at a time; starting with research and learning and then moving on to work experience within companies,” continues Springett. “It’s a journey and the new portal enables young people to make an immediate start!”

The Amazing Apprenticeships team are currently looking to partner with employers in the region, especially in the fields of mechanics, electrical engineering, business and HR, media and digital marketing, retail and catering. If you are a local business looking to invest in future talent and interested in offering opportunity, advice, and support to those from a care background, get in touch with the team now.