Ezekiel had been interested in working in the Civil Service, so when his Work Coach told him about the Civil Service programme with Release Potential, he knew it would help upport his interest in pursuing a role. Since completing the programme, Ezekiel has gone on to work as a Case Management Support Assistant, with plans to develop within the role. Best of luck with the position, Ezekiel!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
After my studies finished in July 2023 my search for work continued whilst unemployed. I did some volunteering work that supported my interest in the environment.

How did you find out about the training?
The Job Centre in Smethwick told me about the learning opportunities available with Release Potential when I went for my appointment. I’d indicated I was interested in looking for a role in the Civil Service and they indicated the course content would be very beneficial.

Why did you decide to join?
Despite having academic qualifications, I didn’t have prior workplace insight and had been struggling with applications. I felt going on the course would expand my knowledge base, and give me extra qualifications to support my interest in pursuing a role.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The training was brilliant and excellent, quality material. The content of everything I learned really helped, and it gave me lots of confidence to submit applications where I’d previously have been reluctant. I learnt about STAR methodology, Situational Judgement tests, and also Customer Service tests/exercises. All of them were useful and applicable with my applications, and I was lucky enough to be considered for lots of the opportunities I applied for.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
Living in a shared house with others, and getting peace to concentrate on the learning was a bit of a challenge but otherwise, no problems.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as a Case Management Support Assistant for Marsh McLennan who are an insurance broker.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The training had a profound impact. I’d struggled prior to attending the course with quite a few rejections when I’d applied for roles, especially in my preferred field of work. Once I’d started the course and learnt some new approaches everything changed. I felt prepared for interviews, better than ever before. I was also considered for Fast Stream – A Post Graduate Scheme. This was based on me having a Post Graduate Qualification. I got to the final stages which I was really proud to have achieved. The skills I picked up during the course were really useful and very transferable.

What are your plans for the future?
My longer term plans are to stay with Marsh McLennan where the opportunities to develop are really positive. I foresee lots of chances to grow within the business, develop my skills further and potentially work in another part of the business either elsewhere in the UK or in a worldwide location.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
The training is definitely worth doing. The type of training and the quality of the content isn’t seen anywhere else.
I’m sure it really helped me secure my role and also gave me opportunities before that, to be involved in other interview settings.