Step Up case study - Pursue the dream of a skilled trade

Background

This participant had a strong interest in joinery, enrolled in the Step Up programme after not meeting the GCSE requirements for a joinery course last year. Determined to improve his qualifications and pursue his dream of a skilled trade, he saw Step Up as a pathway to build his skills and enhance his employability. This programme gave him the chance to work on both foundational academics and trade-related skills.

He needed academic support in numeracy and literacy to strengthen his qualifications for future joinery applications. Additionally, he required guidance in developing transferrable skills like teamwork, communication, and personal success strategies - essential qualities for a career in skilled trades. Through targeted classes, Step Up provided him with regular tutoring in these areas, which increased his confidence and equipped him for the next step in his career journey.

His main challenge was his lack of GCSE qualifications, which initially blocked him from pursuing joinery directly. Additionally, he felt overwhelmed by the competitive nature of vocational training and lacked confidence in his academic abilities. Another obstacle was his uncertainty about how to connect his practical interests with academic requirements, making it hard for him to envision a clear path to his goal.

Over the course of the Step Up programme, he showed incredible dedication. He attended all his numeracy and literacy classes regularly and excelled in introductory courses tailored to joinery and woodworking basics. His involvement in teamwork and personal success classes also allowed him to develop confidence in both independent and group settings. Through these transferrable skills workshops, he learned valuable communication techniques and resilience strategies, which he applied in his academic and personal growth.

Improved skills

His hard work has already begun to pay off. Not only has he improved his numeracy and literacy skills, but he has also gained a solid foundation in joinery, which will strengthen his application when he reapplies for the program. His commitment and growth have impressed his tutors and program coordinators, who commend his dedication and perseverance.

The participant said:

"I'm so grateful for Step Up. I've learned that I can improve my skills and overcome setbacks, and now I feel more ready to chase my dream of becoming a joiner."