Feeling Lost After Education? Isla’s Story Shows There Is a Way Forward.
IslaThe YEP! team are delighted to have supported Isla on her journey into work and training.
Isla is 19 and joined the YEP programme in July 2025 after finishing college. At that time, she felt unsure about her future. Many of her friends stayed in education, and she worried about becoming isolated. She did not know what her next steps should be.
With help from her YEP Adviser, Jane, Isla joined a council research project that looked at barriers to green training and jobs in Cornwall. Taking part helped her meet new people and build her confidence. She learned that she could work well with others and take part in group activities.
Jane also supported Isla to apply for a beauty therapy apprenticeship at a local hotel. Isla was offered a place and loved learning new practical skills. She showed real talent in her work. Because she joined later in the year, she was unable to catch up on the coursework and could not stay on the programme. Although this was disappointing, the employer gave her excellent feedback and encouraged her to apply again next year. This confirmed that beauty therapy and massage are the right careers for her.
With renewed motivation, Isla has taken positive steps forward. She has applied to Adult Education to gain her Level 2 Maths and English, which will improve her job and training options. She has also started a Level 1 Massage course. She enjoys learning more about the industry and developing her skills.
“It has been really helpful to have a mentor I can talk to about my options, who listens and gives encouragement. Having this support has made me feel more motivated and confident about finding the right training and future employment.”- Isla
Through the research project and meeting new people, Isla has gained confidence in speaking to others. She has also recognised her transferable skills, such as communication, teamwork, and reliability. These skills have helped her feel ready to explore new opportunities.
Isla has clear goals for the future. She plans to complete her Maths and English, keep building her practical skills, and start volunteering one day a week to gain work experience. She is also applying for casual and part‑time jobs to earn an income while continuing her training. She is focused on developing skills in facial treatments and massage, the areas she hopes to work in.
“Thank you again, we’d be lost and very disheartened without your support.” - mum
The YEP team are very proud of Isla. She has shown determination and resilience, and she now has a clear plan and growing confidence for the future.
