Exploring Post-16 Options Through Shaping Futures

Shaping Futures Event at CB TutoringMore than 10 Electively Home Educated (EHE) families recently joined a Shaping Futures event. The event was held at CB Tutoring in Bodmin. It helped young people and their families learn about the choices available after the age of 16.

The event was part of the Shaping Futures project. Shaping Futures helps young people learn new skills, build confidence and think about their future. The project is led by Jo Ledger from the Employment and Enterprise Team at Cornwall Council. Jo is a level 6 trained careers advisor and enjoys working with young people.

During the event, young people and their families had the chance to meet staff from Truro and Penwith College, Cornwall College and Duchy College Stoke Climsland. College staff shared information about courses, support available and the different options open to young people after age 16.

Families were able to ask questions and find out more about further education and training. Young people had the chance to explore ideas for their future and learn about routes that matched their interests.

The event helped parents and carers better understand the choices available for young people. Speaking with colleges and careers advisers gave them the information they needed to support future decisions. Families left feeling more confident about helping their child plan for the future.

Hayley and Ayesha from Your Future Kernow attended the event to offer support. They provided one-to-one careers information, support and guidance. They spoke with young people and families about career ideas and helped them think about their next steps.

The event created useful conversations between young people, parents, colleges and careers professionals. It showed the value of giving EHE families access to clear information and support as they start planning their next steps.

Feedback from families was extremely positive.

The success of the event is helping shape future activities within the Shaping Futures project. Plans are already being made for more opportunities for EHE young people across Cornwall. This includes a workplace experience afternoon at Watergate Bay Hotel. Here young people will learn more about jobs in hospitality and see what working in the sector is really like.

Shaping Futures is helping young people and their families feel informed, supported and ready to plan their next steps. Thank you to Chrissi Berry from CB Tutoring in Bodmin for supporting the event at CH Tutoring.