A group of students who recently completed a 12 week Prince’s Trust Personal Development and Contribution to the Community course at Bridgwater College, celebrated their success at a presentation event with special guest, Michael Eavis, founder of Glastonbury Festival.
The self-development programme gives young people, aged 16 – 25, the self-esteem to achieve their goals by helping them to uncover their hidden talents and develop their skills, confidence and motivation to increase their employability. The programme includes aspects such as team building, a residential trip, community project work, work experience and career planning.
Team 39 consisted of eight completers; Laura Bailey, Elliott Law, George Venner, Kevin Ford, Alice Tremelling, Stacey Hubbard, Abbie Bargery and Dillon Hinton. Each individual overcame their own personal issues and insecurities to be successful in the course and were personally congratulated by Michael Eavis.
The success of the students on the programme was made possible by the kind donations, support and valuable time of many local businesses, including Duncan Smith, from Finshore Partners for his financial support, Mr Eavis for providing financial support and tools for the students to use, the Somerset Rural Youth Project (SRYP), Westfield Church and Headway for offering work experience to the students.
Student George Venner, said
“I chose to take part in the course to help me get back into education or employment. This opportunity has provided me with skills I didn’t have before that will really help me to progress, for example writing a CV, the confidence and knowledge to be successful at interview and how to work well within a team. My work experience with the Somerset Rural Youth Project (SRYP) has inspired me to aim for a career in youth work and I hope to start an Apprenticeship with them soon.”
Michael Eavis, who still runs his family farm in Pilton, commented,
“The country we live in offers great opportunities for young people. The Prince’s Trust do a fantastic job of supporting these individuals and providing them with the training to develop the skills and confidence they need to work in a team. It is a pleasure to be able to celebrate the accomplishments of these students, I wish you all a great success in your futures.”
Amanda Johnson, Team Leader for Prince’s Trust at Bridgwater College said,
“It’s been a very enjoyable 12 weeks with Bridgwater Team 39, they are one of the most capable teams of young people I have been lucky enough to work with. Each student has been on an exceptional journey and have opened up many more opportunities to help them reach their potential.
“With approximately 70% of our students going onto jobs, education or training within 3 months of completing the programme, keep up the hard work and you will no doubt reach your goals.”
The next course will commence on Monday 18 May 2015 at Bridgwater College, if you would like more information please contact our Information and Guidance team on 01278 441234.
