Moriah, a young woman from Lewisham, was 16 and in the midst of deciding what to do after school when she joined our Pathways to Professional Careers programme. She had a budding interest in project management but was unsure if this was an achievable next step that could be pursued directly after finishing sixth form.

Through our Pathways programme, we were able connect Moriah directly to industry professionals, including experienced project managers, who were able to answer Moriah’s questions on pathways into the industry.

Moriah heard first hand from professionals with experience of apprenticeships, learning what they actually involve day-to-day and the benefits they offer (including accelerated progression).

With a clear post sixth form goal in mind, Moriah’s CYT coach connected her to tangible and relevant opportunities in the construction and built environment (C&BE) sector. For instance, Moriah took part in a CYT Live Vacancies Day where she met C&BE employers offering higher level apprenticeships. During the event, she had the opportunity to interact with recruitment teams and ask them for tips on how to apply as well as exhibiting her skills and passion through a mock interview.

On the back of this event, with encouragement from her coach, Moriah applied for a Level 6 apprenticeship in construction management with a global consultancy and construction firm. Harnessing our alumni network, we connected Moriah to a previous beneficiary of the programme who had recently transitioned into a similar apprenticeship. We helped Moriah to arrange a meeting, where she had a chance to ask questions and receive first-hand advice about the recruitment process and how to excel during interview.

We’re delighted to report that, having successfully navigated the recruitment process Moriah was offered the apprenticeship! She has taken a huge step on her career journey and we cannot wait to track her progress.

Our Pathways to Professional Careers programme supports students (aged 16-18) interested in pursuing professional pathways, with a priority focus on those from disadvantaged backgrounds and underrepresented groups. Research shows that young people from well-off backgrounds are 80% more likely to be in a professional job. Pathways aims to level the apprenticeship playing field, helping young people overcome barriers and access rewarding Higher Level and Degree apprenticeship opportunities and professional careers.