Delivered in partnership with Avon Fire & Rescue Service and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), our Ignite Programme continues to make a positive impact, with all learners in the latest cohort successfully completing the programme and gaining the confidence to make their next steps, either in employment or further education.

The three-week programme supports unemployed young people aged 19–24 to recognise their potential, develop practical skills and explore opportunities in employment, education and further training.

With a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, Ignite gives learners the opportunity to challenge themselves, try new experiences and build the confidence to take their next steps.

Throughout the programme, learners took part in a range of interactive activities, including:

• Fire station visits and activities with Avon Fire & Rescue
• Team challenges and problem-solving activities
• Confidence and resilience workshops
• Goal setting and planning their future
• Communication and presentation skills
• Health and wellbeing sessions
• CV writing, interview practice and employability workshops
• Outdoor activities

By combining community-based activities with employability and progression support, the programme helps learners identify their strengths, build positive relationships and feel better prepared to move into work, college or further training.

The progress made by the group was recognised by Ben Woolfson, Youth Intervention Lead at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, who said: “It is amazing to see the progress these young people have made in such a short amount of time, they should be very proud of themselves.”

The Mayor of Weston-super-Mare, Owen James, was also impressed by the learners, praising how articulate and engaged they were. He highlighted the fantastic community support provided by Avon Fire & Rescue Service, alongside the employability guidance and progression support delivered by Weston College tutor Paul Haycraft.

The Ignite programme demonstrates the value of partnerships between education providers, public services and employment support organisations in helping young people overcome barriers, build confidence and access new opportunities.

By creating a supportive environment where learners can develop their skills through practical experiences, Ignite helps them recognise what they are capable of and take positive steps towards their future.