Prince’s Trust youngsters offered jobs by Southern

Prince's Trust 'Get into Railways' youngsters proudly display their certificates

Four youngsters have been offered permanent positions with Southern following their participation in a programme designed to help young people develop their employability skills. A further two candidates have been encouraged to apply for other roles within the company.

Southern, in partnership with The Prince’s Trust, recently ran a “Get into Railways” programme for 12 youngsters from the Croydon area.

The programme began with a Taster Day where youngsters identified as in need of support by The Prince’s Trust met with representatives of both organisations to discuss their reasons for wishing to attend the programme. 12 candidates were then selected to take part in the four-week programme which was split between classroom-based learning and practical work placement at a Southern station.

During the course, group were given help with preparing CVs and covering letters, honed their interview skills and took part in team building exercises. Following this the group undertook work experience at a number of stations including East Croydon, Purley, Sutton, Wallington, Kenley and Coulsdon Town.

At the end of course celebration Southern’s Head of Safety, Colin Morris presented the youngsters with their certificates.

Here’s what some of the youngsters had to say at the end of the course:

23 –year-old Louis of Mitcham said: “The course was much more than I expected, it was much more interactive.”

Now with aspirations of joining GTR’s fraud team, Louis said the course had really helped him develop. He said: “Before I was a bit shy, but now I feel like a million pounds. I feel confident. At the places I worked they all seemed to be a big family and I want to be part of it.”

Emerald, aged 21 from Croydon, added: “The course has been great. The best thing has been the effort the managers from the Prince’s Trust and Southern have made to help us build a career, develop ourselves and gain qualifications. Even if we don’t get a job we can put this on our CVs.”

David, aged 19 of New Addington, who has aspirations to be a train driver one day, said: “I feel blessed for the opportunity. I am now confident and ready to delight customers as part of a great team.”

East Croydon Station Manager, Hannah Barnard-Rance said: “It’s fantastic that we’ve been able to make firm offers of employment to four of the youngsters. Everyone who attended the programme approached it with enthusiasm and worked really hard to make a good impression. I’m sure that all who took part will take away some valuable workplace experience and we look forward to helping them all further over the next six months.”

Working with The Prince’s Trust, all 12 have also been offered additional support over a six month period from Southern staff who have been trained by both organisations to act as mentors.