Traineeship: Kyle's Journey

Leaving high school with no qualifications Kyle enrolled at college, tried two different courses, and again left with no qualifications. So he set off with the hope of finding a job.

Kyle struggled to get interviews and didn’t manage to gain any permanent employment. He was recommended to Blackpool FC Community Trust through the Job Centre and he started our Traineeship programme.

On first impressions Kyle was very quiet, shy and reserved but as part of the course trainees have to undertake a work placement of their choice. This
is a two day a week placement and Kyle chose to undertake his placement at Blackpool Transport. After a brief interview Kyle was placed in the Blackpool Transport Information Centre, on Market Street, in Blackpool.

Kyle was working in direct contact with the public which greatly challenged his anxiety and shyness, but with the support from his mentor and other staff he began to enjoy his time in the Information Centre.

Kyle was ever present in the classroom as well as on his placement and within a few weeks there was a noticeable change in his persona. He was more vocal in class, willing to take part, and lead on tasks.

Bernadette from Blackpool Transport said, “Kyle found it challenging in the beginning but he is now more confident when dealing with the public. He’s a great lad and should have no problem gaining employment”.

Towards the end of his placement staff at the Blackpool Transport Information Centre were so impressed with how Kyle had progressed that they made it their task to find him employment. Meanwhile Kyle successfully completed his studies and passed his Functional Skills Maths and English as well as his Level 3 in First Aid.

Two jobs at Blackpool Transport became available, Kyle applied and successfully gained a position as Tram Conductor starting in August 2019.

When asked what the difference was between school, college and Blackpool FC Community Trust Kyle said: “I liked the relaxed atmosphere, staff encouraged me to progress as well as giving me support throughout”.