Ashford-based charity CXK’s Prince’s Trust Team Programme has been rated ‘Good’ after its most recent Ofsted inspection. The charity received its inspection in February and was rated ‘Good’ in all four areas: effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; and outcomes for learners.
CXK’s Prince’s Trust Team Programme is a 12 week study programme designed to help improve the confidence, motivation and work-related skills of 16-25 year olds who are NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), with programmes delivered in Ashford, Thanet, Maidstone, Dartford, Sittingbourne and Folkestone. The programme is free of charge to participants, and is funded by the Education Funding Agency.
The inspectors commented: “As a result of CXK’s Prince’s Trust programmes, learners gain enthusiasm for working… Learners attend well, despite often having negative previous experiences of education… Leaders plan effective programmes that improve learners’ confidence and skills. This prepares learners very well for their next steps.”
They went on to say: “Teaching staff support learners well. As a result, learners develop good skills in leadership and teamwork. This builds their confidence quickly and they are proud of the progress they make.”
Ofsted inspectors also recognised the benefits of the programme to the wider community: “As a result of well-planned and managed community projects, learners develop a good understanding of their society. They make meaningful and positive contributions to their local area.”
CXK’s Prince’s Trust Team programme takes place over the course of 12 weeks, with participants spending their first week at a residential activity centre taking part in team-building activities such as canoeing, climbing, and raft-building. The young people go on to become involved in designing and executing community projects, as well as developing their Maths and English skills, and working on their interview, presentation and job application skills. Finally, they benefit from individual work placements tailored to their career field of interest.
Having successfully completed the programme, the participating young people gain a nationally recognised qualification in Employability, Teamwork and Community Skills. A significant proportion of learners go on to secure apprenticeships, employment or further education because of their time on the CXK course.
Kellie Major, Assistant Director of Training and Development at CXK, commented, “Our Prince’s Trust Team programme really does help to create new opportunities for the young people that need it most. This result is testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, who are committed to empowering individuals by ensuring that they have access to what they need to maximise their potential.”