When 19-year-old Harley first came to Inspire, he was uncertain about his future. Despite completing a Level 2 qualification in Maintenance Operations (Construction) at college, he struggled to secure an apprenticeship.
This shook his confidence, and he was referred to Youth Employment and Personal Development coach Matt.
Together, they began working on setting a clearer career path and building the tools Harley needed to succeed.
“In our sessions, I talked about what I wanted to do and what I did in college. Matt also helped me get my CV sorted, as mine didn’t have a lot of information,” Harley explained.
To help Harley gain more practical experience, Matt enrolled him in a short Multi-Skills course through Lofty Heights. The four-week course gave Harley some hands-on training, and also helped him gain his CSCS card, an essential qualification for working on construction sites.
Following this, Inspire contacted Suffolk Highways to explore further opportunities. Harley was invited to an Insight day where he toured the facilities and met with staff to get a feel for the work environment and expectations.
He fully embraced the opportunity, and his positive attitude led to a two-week work experience placement with Suffolk Highways.
“The first week, I worked in the offices with all the teams. In the second week, I went out with the operators to see what they did,” Harley said. “I visited lots of different sites and got a proper understanding of what everyone does.”
Harley’s passion and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. After his placement, he was offered two roles following a successful interview.
“When I had my interview, I was able to sit down and have a real conversation about what I wanted to do. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do that before, but Matt was so determined to help me get a job,” Harley shared.
Harley was offered both a full-time role and an apprenticeship. He picked the latter due to the opportunity to gain more qualifications. “To be offered two things after my interview was the best thing I could have asked for,” he said.
Harley will begin his apprenticeship with Suffolk Highways in September, ready to build a promising future in the construction industry.
