John Ruskin College Proudly Partners with The King’s Trust

John Ruskin College is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with The King’s Trust to deliver a dynamic and engaging 12-week employability programme from their Selsdon campus. This initiative is specifically designed to support unemployed young people in confidently transitioning into the world of work, equipping them with the skills, experience, and mindset needed to take their next steps.

Cassie Wilson, Youth Development Lead from The King’s Trust, shared her enthusiasm: “We’re absolutely delighted to be launching our Team Programme at John Ruskin College and to be joining the vibrant Croydon community. We can’t wait to get started and work alongside local young people to support them on their next steps.”

This comprehensive programme focuses on both personal growth and professional development. Participants will gain valuable employability skills, recognised qualifications, and, importantly, the confidence to pursue their goals. Through a blend of hands-on experiences, structured workshops, and dedicated one-to-one support, learners will not only develop essential workplace competencies but also uncover hidden talents and build strong self-belief.

Each cohort, typically made up of around 12 participants, benefits from a supportive and inclusive environment. Strong friendships are often formed early on through team-building activities and shared challenges, helping to create a sense of belonging and motivation. The course offers a diverse and enriching experience, including:

• A residential trip featuring outdoor activities such as canoeing, rock climbing, and raft building, designed to build resilience, teamwork, and confidence
• The opportunity to plan and deliver a community-based group project that makes a positive impact locally
• A meaningful work experience placement within a real workplace setting
• Tailored support with CV writing, interview techniques, and job applications
• Opportunities to improve English and Maths skills while working towards recognised qualifications

The programme culminates in week twelve with a final group presentation delivered to invited guests. During this celebratory event, participants reflect on the personal goals they set at the beginning of the course and showcase the progress they have made. It is a powerful moment for learners to share their journeys, highlight their achievements, and demonstrate the skills and confidence they have developed.

Debbie Ryle, Assistant Principal for Curriculum at Orbital South Colleges, commented: “We are very excited to launch the highly reputed King’s Trust programme at John Ruskin College. This initiative will benefit local young jobseekers by offering a free 12-week course designed to boost confidence, teach new skills, and support progression into employment.”