Kyle's Journey

Kyle's Journey

Kyle referred himself to the YEP project on Friday, 18 April. He had heard about YEP from friends. He had dropped out of college during the second year of his Level 2 Carpentry course because he wasn’t enjoying it. He then signed up with a recruitment agency but was only getting the odd shift at a local Spar shop. Kyle wasn’t sure what he wanted to do next.

At the same time, Jane (YEP Co-ordinator) was working with an employer. The employer needed an apprentice to help with his growing kitchen fitting business. Jane contacted the employer and arranged for them all to meet and talk about this opportunity.

Preparing for the Opportunity

Before the meeting, Jane worked with Kyle on his employability skills. She practiced interview techniques, talked about employer expectations, and updated his CV.

The meeting went well, and the employer offered Kyle a work trial for the following week. Jane coached Kyle before the trial and explained what the job would be like. She gave Kyle tips on how to be on time, dress properly, take initiative, and meet the employer’s expectations. She also completed a work experience form with the employer.

Cornwall Councils work experience team contacted the employer and completed all the necessary checks.

From Trial to Full-Time Work

Kyle completed a successful trial day and was offered a work experience placement. Jane stayed in regular contact with both Kyle and the employer during this time.

At the end of the placement, they held another meeting to discuss next steps. Kyle said he didn’t want to return to college to complete the educational part of an apprenticeship. So, the employer asked for help writing a contract, which YEP supported. YEP also helped to negotiate Kyle’s wage.

Kyle has been working full-time since Tuesday 1 July and is loving his new job. He’s learning new skills and travelling across the Southwest for different jobs. His confidence has grown, and he now sees a bright future ahead. He’s also learning to drive and is excited about saving for his first car.

A Positive Impact

The employer was so pleased with the process that he’s asked us to help him find two more employees. He said it takes the stress out of recruiting, as we match the right young person to the job, set up the work trial, and monitor progress for six months.

“Jane got me signed up onto YEP and very quickly got me a job which I absolutely love and am extremely grateful for. I’m learning loads of new skills, I have something to get up for and money in my pocket. The best thing is that I am proud of myself and that’s new. My friends all went away to college, I felt left behind and a bit lost to be honest. Now I can take them out for Maccies instead of the other way round—and I’m saving for a car.”— Kyle

Well done Kyle, Jane and the YEP Team!