THE COUNCIL is offering support and career advice to young people who have left school.
Elevate, a support organisation run by the council, helps 16- to 18-year-olds plan their career by providing education, jobs, apprenticeships, training, work experience and volunteering opportunities.
Open to those who are not in education, employment or training, the service can help young people identify their next step.
Borough resident Charley (16), left school with no qualifications and did not have a career in mind.
The 16-year-old said: “The Elevate team helped me realise that I’m not alone. I’m working with them to help me get the marks in English and maths I need to get a job as I did not get any GCSEs.
“They’re helping me slowly get back on track and back on my feet as I haven’t been to school in so long and knew nothing about getting a job, so they have helped me with my CV too.”
She added: “If you’re in need of help I’d say definitely get in touch with Elevate as they are such a big help. If you do not have GCSEs like me and need them for an apprenticeship you are interested in they will help you with that like they did with me.”
Cllr Ullakarin Clark, executive member for children’s services at Wokingham Borough Council, said: “We know that this year in particular has been difficult for our younger residents and we know they are capable of great things.
“We want them to know that we are here to help and support them to succeed in whatever they choose to do in their future careers.
“We have seen the positive difference that our Elevate team has made to the lives of so many of our young adults like Charley and I would urge anyone wanting a little support, including parents who are in need of some advice, to get in touch.”
Elevate is currently offering telephone and online appointments.
For more information, visit: wokingham.elevateme.org.uk
