After leaving university Hayden was at a loss on what to do when his work coach told him about the course. Hayden thought that gaining an IT qualification would help make him more employable in different work sectors. Read on to find out more of what Hayden has to say about his time here!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I’d attended University College Birmingham where I started a BSc in Strength and Conditioning. I passed the first year and then made the decision to stop as I wasn’t enjoying the degree and wanted something else. I was unemployed for a short time before starting the course.

How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach, Molly, at Dudley Job Centre told me about it. She sent me information about two courses I might be interested in, and I went for the IT. It was more relevant to me and gave me an opportunity to expand my skills.

Why did you decide to join?
After leaving university I wasn’t sure what to do next. I had been using IT skills at university for a wide range of tasks and thought taking an IT course would help to make me more employable in a different sector of work.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
I enjoyed learning remotely. The tutors Owen and Ryan were really helpful. The other learners on the course were friendly and there was a good atmosphere. I enjoyed working in groups and learned new skills I didn’t have previously including using excel, how to build websites and other useful skills such as interview techniques and professionalism.
I met employers on the course and even had an interview with one, but it was for an administrative role which I wasn’t keen on. I applied for several Kickstart vacancies while I was on the course.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I just needed to find a job. I thought that studying remotely actually helped to prepare me for the Kickstart role I went on to obtain which also requires me to work from home.

What are you doing now?
I’m employed by the Premier Advisory Group in a Kickstart Research Assistant role. It’s my first day today. My role includes reading up on clients, reporting information to colleagues, drafting reports and assessments, and handling and analysing data so it is easier to understand.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I’m more confident in interview situations and in speaking to employers. It’s brought me out of my shell. I feel more productive and pro-active now.

What are your plans for the future?
My short-term goal is to complete my Kickstart placement. I’d like to be kept on by the company and progress to become a Research Advisor and work my way up. If I don’t get kept on, I’ll be able to use the things I’ve learned over the six months with another organisation.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
I’d recommend the course. You learn so much, and it’s not just IT, it’s all the other things that might not be obvious at first such as communication skills and interview techniques. The course helped me to get the role I’m just starting.