Whats involved

The Workskills Project is designed to give pupils experience of building on and using teamwork skills, experience of preparing for interviews and attending a mock interview. Throughout the course they gain a certificate in basic first aid, as well as a Level 1 Award in Workskills through Edexcel.

The course includes two marketing projects in which they have to work as a team in order to:  a) make a shoe and market it and:  b) invent a product and market it.  The Army Activity day helps with teambuilding skills and they also take part in Archery and paint-balling. Not at each other though!

The groups also have a visit to IKEA or Warrington Wolves to check on various careers and job roles which enable companies to function efficiently and effectively.

There is a session with the Connexions Phaze team discussing issues surrounding healthy living, Drugs and Alcohol. A music production company comes in to deliver a music based activity, which encourages the young people to write their own rap songs, based on life experiences.

Here are a few quotes from the young people:

‘During the two weeks, I have learnt to listen to others ideas’

‘The best thing I have learnt is to evaluate my own and others’ ideas’

‘It has increased my confidence’

‘I have learnt to lead a group and gained new skills e.g.: a First Aid Certificate’

‘Learnt to communicate better so that I can help and encourage people if they are struggling in a team’

Most of the comments from the young people at the beginning of the course are ones of uncertainty and not expecting too much.  However, on completion, it is a different story as seen above. 

The course offers a variety of activities which challenge the young people and takes them into areas which are new to them.  As their confidence is built up through the project, it culminates into them giving a professional PowerPoint presentation in front of their teachers and peers of what the project entailed and what they had learnt. 
We think that the project gives them a good insight into the process of working with people who they do not know too well. They have to learn to listen to others and show patience as well as learning to communicate their ideas. 

It is very satisfying when we have the presentations at the end of the project as they all appear to be very proud of themselves and pleased with their achievements.  We see a big difference in some of the young people who were initially staying in the background, but by the end are taking a very active part in the project. 

Margaret Telfer
Connexions Personal Advisor