11 Sep 2025
By Rachel Daniel, Operations Manager, The Forward Trust
Forward’s employment team recently welcomed back past learners who continue to face challenges in securing sustainable employment. This follow-up programme was designed to provide targeted support after they completed our course focused on employability and green skills.
Over three intensive days, we worked one-to-one with each learner to identify gaps in their job application process and strengthen their approach to securing interviews and job offers.
In these sessions, our teams offered:
• A review of job application tools, including CVs and cover letters.
• Support with live job applications and tailored feedback.
• Mock interviews based on real job roles that learners were applying for.
• Live employer interviews with hiring managers from Big Issue [link] and Home Instead [link].
Day 1 – Job Application Skills Assessment
11 learners attended sessions focused on enhancing their job application techniques. Each learner received personalised one-to-one support to refine their CVs and cover letters, boosting their chances of securing interviews.
Day 2 – Mock Interviews
5 learners participated in mock interviews with staff members. They received constructive feedback and built confidence in presenting themselves to employers.
Day 3 – Employer Interviews
11 learners took part in real interviews with Big Issue and Home Instead. 5 learners progressed to the next stage of the recruitment process, gaining direct exposure to employment opportunities.
Over three impactful days of Employability Skills assessments, we saw some brilliant outcomes:
• One learner was offered a job on the same day they applied.
• Another secured a work trial with Nando’s.
• Learners applied for roles at Pret, Aldi, Tesco, and other employers during the one-to-one sessions.
• All 11 learners left with improved job application and interview skills.
Participants shared that while previous training sessions were engaging and informative, many found it challenging to retain and implement the skills gained during the course. This follow-up 3-day programme provided a valuable opportunity to refresh their knowledge and better understand the importance of tailoring job applications to specific roles within their chosen fields.
Learners also gained real interview experience with employers, which significantly boosted their confidence. They received constructive developmental feedback to help improve their performance in future interviews.
