giving young people practical skills
DISC’s young person’s training project Steps4 Success in Newton Aycliffe are trying to help young people who are out of work, and not currently in education, to improve their skills and gain valuable work experience to enable them to move on to work or college.
To date, about 160 young people have benefited from its combination of practical advice, skills and confidence building courses and work placements with organisations such as Katell, Aycliffe Dental Practice, Aycliffe Day Nursery and Bluebell Workshops.
Courses range from health and social care, to retail, construction, and business administration. After successfully completing the personal social development course, Amy, 17, enrolled on the vocational level one BTEC certificate in business administration.
The combination of group work, classroom sessions and a work placement helped build her confidence and she became an active member of the group, offering valuable content during learning discussions.
“She was even able to participate in a DISC presentation ceremony where she stood and told her story to others, many of which she did not know,” said Andrea Dixon, project manager “What a fantastic achievement.”
Amy left DISC in September 2012 and is now excelling on a Mencap work placement at Spennymoor Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
She also volunteers for Newton Aycliffe Town Council’s environmental department and has written more than 21 short stories.
Amy said Steps4Success had made an enormous difference to her life. “It has helped a lot with my confidence,” she said. “I used to be a loner and didn’t talk much and never wanted to get involved. DISC has helped me to gradually open up.”
Andrea said the charity would love to hear from other young people interested in Steps4Success. Free transport and bursaries are available, as well as help with other course costs.
Contact 01325 731160 or steps4success@disc-vol.org.uk
DISC, Sapphire House
Horndale Avenue
