Richard Luscombe Argyle Community Trust’s Skills Builder employability course has successfully supported the latest cohort of young adults, ensuring they take positive steps towards employment, in partnership with City College Plymouth.
The programme supported participants aged 19 and over to build confidence, develop key workplace skills, and prepare for job opportunities. Support included CV and cover letter guidance, interview preparation, wellbeing workshops, first aid training, and personalised one-to-one mentoring. Through practical sessions and tailored support, many participants felt more confident and better equipped to apply for roles and attend interviews. Several progressed to interviews, with some successfully securing employment.
Participants highlighted the value of learning alongside others on similar journeys and gaining practical, workplace-relevant skills. Feedback included:
- Learning valuable skills that can be applied to the workplace
- Usefulness of the first aid segment and refresher on health and safety
- Benefit of being with others going through the same journey
- Recommending the course to anyone that has been out of work or needs confidence with finding work
A key highlight was the “Get Hired Day” where participants engaged with employers and completed mock interviews, providing real-world insight into recruitment processes. The day was made possible thanks to local organisations who supported the day, including City College Plymouth, Plymouth Citybus, On Course South West, and Livewell Southwest, who’s time and input made a real difference to participants’ experiences.
The final session included a gym taster at The Hub at Foulston Park, with some learners progressing onto the Active Devonport programme, a new initiative supporting beginners starting their health and wellbeing journey. Overall, the course demonstrated the positive impact of targeted support, helping individuals build confidence, gain skills, and move forward in their employment journey.
Argyle Community Trust Skills Manager, Caitlin Jones, said: “We have been helping people unlock their potential and build confidence around employment, no matter what you age is. We are proud of the partnerships we have to really make difference to the life chances of people in the region.”
For more information on our employability programmes and how they can support you please contact caitlin.jones@pafc.co.uk.
