Springboard Programme: Compass Employability Programme

Region: Greater London

Year: 2019

Jason always knew that he wanted to work in an environment where he could interact with and help people, but he struggled to find the confidence and motivation he needed to pursue a career he was really passionate about. Towards the end of Jason’s time completing his studies at college, he had become disinterested in the subjects he was studying but was struggling to secure full-time employment; receiving only rejections in response. Jason was also bearing the growing pressure of supporting his family financially and was left feeling “desperate and useless”.

Last year, after a series of failed job applications, Jason stumbled across The Springboard Charity when he got in touch for CV advice, having been linked to the charity previously through some voluntary work he’d undertaken at a hotel which had been organised through his college. Jason spoke to Springboard’s Careers Advice and Guidance team who recommended that he look at some of our employability programmes. Jason completed the Compass programme in the autumn, describing it as “eye-opening”.

The programme provided Jason with 2 weeks of pre-employment training, including accredited certificates in Customer Service Level 2. For the first time, Jason was pushed out of his comfort zone and was able to choose from a number of career options presented by Springboard’s many business partners and connections. Not only did his career prospects improve but Jason also felt an overwhelming sense of optimism in light of taking part in the programme: “My confidence has improved massively. The programme really surpassed my expectations.”

The Compass employability programme allowed Jason to flourish and grow his communication skills, taking on a lead role in the group and really excelling himself.

It allowed Jason to begin a career in hospitality, working front-of-house as a receptionist where he was able to interact with guests and really hone his customer service skills; the area he felt most passionate about. He has been working as a night receptionist at the Andaz for the past few months and hopes to progress within the hospitality industry.