Elev8 project goes from strength to strength
The project has also seen further NEET young people progress on to programmes at the Prince's Trust, other colleges or Entry to Employment (E2E) and apprenticeship opportunities.
November sees the project celebrate its first anniversary and so far the results speak for themselves says Elev8 Manager, Chris Gunn: "The Elev8 project has worked with over 200 NEET young people from the Preston area and is still going strong. We have built up great links with other organisations and agencies such as UCLan, training providers, local schools, Lancashire County Council and the Young People's Service who help refer young people to our project."
Chris and his team have dedicated time and effort to ensure the programme is a success, running courses at the College and external venues across the city.
The team had another reason to celebrate when their 'WorkSkills' handbook, designed to support students in gaining the BTEC Award in WorkSkills, was bought by the awarding body, Edexcel to make available to other providers of the qualification.
Edexcel have also developed a website case study based on the ELEV8 team's experiences and successes.
Chris said: "We are now also providing support to other colleges who are interested in setting up similar programmes for NEET young people which is rewarding. Our results speak for themselves and the recognition from Edexcel is extremely pleasing.
"The aim to reduce the number of NEET young people is a key part of the government's education and training agenda and focuses on helping young people develop their skills and confidence. It is nice to know that ELEV8 is helping to address this."
"The ELEV8 brand and approach is now starting to be recognised in schools and colleges across the city and country. Hopefully we can have an even better year in 2010 and get more young people into some form of employment, education or training."
For further information about the Elev8 project at Preston College - see the website www.preston.ac.uk/elev8 or contact Chris Gunn on 01772 225392 or email cgunn@preston.ac.uk
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