Breaking Barriers: First Graduates of Life Skills and Careers Academy Share Their Journey

Nine specially selected students from Burton and South Derbyshire College have made history as the first graduates of the Make It Happen Academy, a pioneering life skills and careers program by an award-winning PR and communications firm. This three-day intensive course was designed to equip 16 to 18-year-olds with essential life, career, and communication skills, through mock interviews, CV writing tasks, and public speaking challenges.

Transformative Experience

Every participant reported a significant boost in confidence, social skills, interview techniques, and public speaking abilities. Siphokazi Sally Malinda, a 17-year-old graduate, shared, "My confidence has grown so much. The course has been packed with valuable lessons and hands-on experiences that have made me even more excited about my career journey."

Curriculum Highlights

• Day 1: Focused on personal presentation, first impressions, and the impact of social media.
• Day 2: Centered on career readiness, including interview preparation and job-hunting skills.
• Day 3: Emphasized interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, featuring unique challenges like silent teamworking.

Future Plans

Due to its success, the academy plans to extend its program into 2026, aiming to prepare more students for the workforce. Charlotte Sankey, the college's course leader, praised the initiative, stating, "It’s boosted their confidence, communication skills, and the way they work with others."

Confidence Metrics

Students' confidence levels, initially rated between one and five, saw a dramatic increase across all measured areas by the program's end, showcasing the academy's impactful approach to personal and professional development.