Education Business Partnership - YEP

Jamie

Jamie first got involved with the YEP Project in 2024. After talking about the support available, it was decided that he wasn’t ready to take part yet.

In April 2025, YEP continued with UKSPF Year 4 funding. Jamie felt more prepared and wanted to move forward toward future opportunities. At that time, he wasn’t ready to go back into education and didn’t feel confident about getting a job. He said he wanted to learn more about animation and hoped to work in game development one day.

Jamie received support from Cornwall Council, Pentreath, and Mind. These organisations worked together to explore other services that could help him move into work or education. At the same time, Jamie got help applying to Homechoice and the DWP for PIP support.

While accessing these services, research was done to explore paths into games development. It became clear that local options in Cornwall were limited unless he went to university. Jamie was supported in learning about the qualifications available. He discussed the course content, different options, and the facilities at Falmouth University. Based on this, Jamie decided to apply to university, aiming to start in September 2026.

The YEP Project is helping Jamie with his university application. We are also arranging a supported tour of the campus. Once the university confirms his enrolment, YEP will continue to support him with important life skills, like managing money. These skills will help him make the most of this great opportunity.

Jamie’s journey shows that no path should be ruled out. YEP doesn’t only offer activities—it also gives one-to-one support. YEP, allows each young person to explore the opportunities they are interested in. Where possible, barriers are removed so they have the best chance to succeed.

“Without YEP I wouldn’t have even thought of applying to Uni.” – Jamie, 19/6/25

Brooke's Journey

Background

Brooke joined the Youth Engagement Project (YEP) in 2024. She was referred because she struggled with self-confidence. She suffered with social anxiety and was uncertain about her future. She was applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) due to learning difficulties.

Brooke said, “I felt like a failure, and I couldn't see getting past my 17th birthday.”

After a positive year with YEP, the project received more UKSPF funding in 2025. Brooke reached out again to keep building on her progress. She wants to move closer to education, employment, or training.

Challenge.

Brooke started a Childcare course at college, thinking it was the right choice. But she soon realised it wasn’t for her. Her low self-worth and anxiety made it hard to stay motivated. She also lacked direction, which made it difficult to make decisions about her future.

Support

Through YEP, Brooke was referred to Argyle Community Trust for one-to-one mentoring. Her mentor helped her rebuild confidence and explore realistic next steps. They met weekly to talk through her concerns and create a personal plan.

Brooke shared her love for physical activity, especially surfing. Her mentor helped her get a gym membership. They also went on active walks at the local athletic track. These sessions helped Brooke reconnect with what made her feel strong and motivated.

Outcome

In 2025, Brooke made big progress through YEP. She signed up for more support with Argyle Community Trust in April. Soon after, she began training for her Lifeguard and Surf Instructor Qualification. This was with the same group that ran her weekly surf club. She also made new friends and started her first job as a waitress at a local café.

Brooke said, “I am so proud of how far I have come. I am planning my future and so excited for all the opportunities I now have in front of me.”

Her mentor added, “It has been amazing to see how far Brooke has come. Her resilience has grown stronger and stronger, and you can see her independence growing as well.”

Conclusion

Brooke’s story shows how the right support and encouragement can help a young person face challenges and build a better future.

At 23, Jack had never worked and believed employment was out of reach. Despite achieving a Level 3 qualification in Media Studies, his autism and ADHD had presented barriers to finding a job. He spent most of his time at home gaming and watching YouTube. Referred onto YEP!, Jack began working with The Education Business Partnership (EBP) to explore supported internships—a government initiative designed to help young people with special educational needs into employment. His journey started at Liskeard Library, a hub for YEP! partner Real Ideas, which also delivers the Digital Futures programme, offering training in digital skills. Recognising Jack’s potential, Real Ideas and EBP collaborated to tailor their Digital Natives course, providing hands-on experience in content creation and immersive technology.

Jack quickly engaged with the programme, demonstrating creativity and enthusiasm. He excelled in social media content creation, using 360 cameras and Canva to produce professional, branded assets. His writing skills also shone through in engaging social media posts. With support from EBP and Real Ideas, Jack refined his CV to showcase his newly acquired skills. As his confidence grew, he was encouraged to attend an open day at Hertzian, a tech company. With guidance from both organisations and his father, Jack made a strong impression, securing a valuable internship opportunity. YEP! provided him with a work computer, while his father supported him with a phone, ensuring he had the tools needed to succeed.

Jack now works remotely from home and meets his United Response work coach in-person at Liskeard Library, a setting that supports his ASD and ADHD needs. As he prepares to move to Plymouth, United Response is pioneering a new approach, providing remote work coaching for the first time. Jack describes the experience as life-changing: “Working in the library is really supportive, especially for my ASD and ADHD. My work coach and my supervisor at Hertzian are very supportive, and they generally help me out a lot.” His journey highlights how a tailored approach, collaboration, and the right support can transform opportunities for young people with additional needs.

Four years ago, their 20-year-old son experienced a breakdown at school that left him feeling lost and unsure about his future. Despite his impressive skills in computing and programming, he struggled to find his way forward.

Then they met Julie......

Julie Tully EBP - Yep! Team

Through the YEP program, Julie connected with their son and offered unwavering kindness, patience, and empathy. She helped him build confidence, tackle everyday tasks, and even encouraged him to volunteer as a gardener – something they never thought he'd do!

With Julie's guidance, their son rediscovered his passion for technology. She helped him prepare for an interview, negotiate reasonable adjustments with an employer, and land an internship within just five months! Seeing him thrive in this role, sharing his knowledge and humour with colleagues, filled them with joy and gratitude.

'Julie's support has been truly transformative'.

Sadly, resources for young people facing mental health challenges in Cornwall are scarce. They spent years on waiting lists, feeling helpless. Funding for dedicated support like Julie's is vital, and they're eager to help in any way they can to ensure other families experience the same positive impact.

Yep! Is a partnership of 11 organisations across Cornwall that can support young people with their next steps, who are:
· Age 16-24
· Living in Cornwall or the IoS
· Not in employment, education, or training
· Struggling in education age 16+
📢Referrals can be made by following the link Yep! - CSW Group Ltd.
Please gain the young person’s consent before making a referral.
Yep! Is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
#YouCan #UKSPF #CIOSGOODGROWTH #EBPcornwall #cornwallopportunities #youthopportunities #makingithappen

This was a significant milestone for Annika, marking the beginning of her career in administration!

Annika came on to the Yep! Project in April 24, with the thoughts of a career within admin. She had taken part in many government funded programmes over the years, without success, but this time she was determined to find a fulltime paid position this time.

She did! After a few unsuccessful interviews and a false start at a school catering company, Annika applied and offered a job as a Business Admin Assistant at Cornwall Council.

The role at the Council was exactly what she had been striving for—a chance to utilise her skills and knowledge in a full-time capacity. Annika was eager to learn and grow, and she was grateful for the support and guidance she received from the Yep! Project.

As she starts her new job, Annika will reflect on her journey and will realise that every experience, even those that seemed like setbacks, has contributed to her personal and professional growth. Her story, I hope, will become an inspiration for others in the program, proving that with determination and the right support, achieving one's career goals is possible.

The Yep! Project will celebrate Annika's success as a testament to the impact of their work in empowering individuals to pursue meaningful employment. Annika's story will become a beacon of hope, encouraging others to persist through challenges and seize every opportunity that comes their way.

Yep! Is a partnership of 11 organisations across Cornwall that can support young people with their next steps, who are:
· Age 16-24
· Living in Cornwall or the IoS
· Not in employment, education, or training
· Struggling in education age 16+

📢Referrals can be made by following the link Yep! - CSW Group Ltd.

Please gain the young person’s consent before making a referral.

Yep! Is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund

#YouCan #UKSPF #CIOSGOODGROWTH #EBPcornwall #cornwallopportunities

#youthopportunities #makingithappen

Reaching young people with the Maritime UK Summit

The Maritime Museum recently hosted the Maritime UK Summit in collaboration with Cornwall Marine Network.

The summit, attended by industry leaders, educators, and policymakers, shone a spotlight on the industries ongoing efforts to promote skills development and employment, particularly for hard-to-reach young people.

The first part of the summit was an inspiring initiative to highlighting barriers faced by young people from underrepresented communities, including those facing socioeconomic challenges or living in geographically isolated areas.

Tim Hunt from the the Yep! Team at Education Business Partnership, explained: “This was a fantastic day for bringing to the forefront opportunities in this particular industry and engaging young people.”

Tim Hunt

“Maritime industry partners spoke about the programs they have implemented which are tailored to equip these individuals with industry-specific skills while fostering personal growth and confidence.”

The summit also saw commitments from key stakeholders to transition using clean energy. As a part of this, leaders from the maritime industry pledged to increase apprenticeships, mentorship programs, school outreach and funding for grassroots projects targeting hard-to-reach youth.

Policymakers also expressed their dedication to fostering such partnerships, emphasizing the importance of maritime innovation and, inclusivity for the nation’s economy.

Tim added: “This was a vibrant event that showcased the sector’s commitment to nurturing talent and broadening opportunities!”

Jo and Cat from EBP took full advantage of the networking opportunities at the Truro Careers Fair on Wednesday, October 9th, held at The Alverton Hotel. The event provided a valuable platform for them to connect with industry professionals, explore potential collaborations, and gain insights into the latest trends. Engaging with a diverse group of participants, they were able to exchange ideas and gather information that could benefit the Yep! and Diversity to Thrive Projects. The fair not only facilitated new connections but also reinforced existing relationships, making it a fruitful experience.

#YouCan #SEND #EBPcornwall #Diversity

Attending the PCC event at the Eden Project was a fantastic experience, brimming with opportunities to promote Yep! and network with both parents/carers and other providers. The Eden Project's stunning backdrop added a unique charm to the event and engaging with parents to discuss the Yep! project is an essential step in ensuring they are well-informed about the support available for their children.

We can support Young People who are:
Age 16-24
Live in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly
Not in employment, education, or training
Struggling in education age 16+

Please gain the young person’s consent before making a referral.

Referrals can be made by following the link https://cswgroup.co.uk/home/young-people/yep/

#YouCan #UKSPF #CIOSGOODGROTH

Yep! is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund'

After beginning her journey with the Yep! Project and embarking on her Functional Skills Maths and English courses through Plymouth Argyle, our Yep! YP found herself at a pivotal moment, uncertain of her next steps. Despite applying for an apprenticeship at a nursery, the opportunity did not materialize. However, a conversation with Jo Ledger from the Education Business Partnership (EBP) opened new doors. Inspired by their discussion, she explored Duchy College's Animal Care Courses. Following a visit to the Duchy Animal Care department with her mother, she secured a place on the program, which is set to commence this week. This new direction promises exciting opportunities and a bright future in animal care for her.

We can support Young People who are:
Age 16-24
Live in Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly
Not in employment, education, or training
Struggling in education age 16+

Please gain the young person’s consent before making a referral.

Referrals can be made by following the link https://cswgroup.co.uk/home/young-people/yep/

#YouCan #UKSPF #CIOSGOODGROTH #CSWGroup

Yep! is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund

Cat and Lauren

Yep! Success

We're thrilled to share a heart-warming Yep! update.

Please meet Lauren, Lauren is one of our Yep! participants and has just completed a supported internship at Bodmin Hospital. She is being supported by the Yep! team and Cat has been helping her with her next steps. Recently, we connected with Imagine Outdoors, a fantastic children's adventure group run by the amazing Matt Tolson (aka Pinky). They offer after-school clubs, holiday clubs, birthday party hosting, and sessions for home-schooled children and children in care. Matt’s ethos is all about letting children be wild, free, and true to themselves, grounded in strong community values.

Matt welcomed Lauren to join some sessions with the club! She helped with an after-school session where she played Top Trumps with the kids, handed out prizes, and even had fun with a bubble machine. Lauren also pitched in at the BBQ, taking charge of the ketchup and mayo, and engaging with all the kids. We're now working on setting up a Level 1 childcare course for Lauren, and we're excited about her future in this field.

We can support young people with their next steps, who are:

• Age 16-24
• Living in Cornwall or the IoS
• Not in employment, education, or training
• Struggling in education age 16+

Referrals can be made by following the link: Yep! - CSW Group Ltd.

Please gain the young person’s consent before making a referral.

Yep! Is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund