We are delighted to announce our partnership with Essex County Council to support the Essex Year of Opportunity, an initiative dedicated to helping residents of all ages return to learning and explore new career paths.
Through this partnership, Get Further will deliver our Functional Skills Level 2 Tuition Programme to 16-19-year-olds who are no longer in compulsory education, employment, or training (NEET), or at risk of becoming NEET. The course will provide valuable support to build their English and maths skills. By focusing on this group, the course aims to give young people the tools to re-engage with learning, while opening doors to future opportunities.
Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, explained:
“It is vital our young people are given every opportunity to succeed. These courses are targeted at those aged 16-19 who aren’t currently at college or in employment. Everyone needs good literacy and numeracy skills to get on, whether at college or in the workplace. We need to help these youngsters get the necessary skills to support their prospects.”
The programme will run over three months, with learners attending four hours of tuition each week at accessible community-based settings, such as youth hubs across Essex. Get Further is one of three delivery partners selected for this project, alongside Clarion and New City College. The courses will be run in small-group sessions, creating a safe space for learners to ask questions, build confidence and engage.
Annabel Richardson, Head of Functional Skills at Get Further, said:
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Essex County Council to support young people in re-engaging with education. Many of the learners on this programme will have faced barriers to achieving English and maths qualifications in the past — our aim is to help them rebuild confidence, develop key skills, and see what they’re capable of. These qualifications are true gateways to opportunity, and we’re proud to be part of a partnership that’s giving young people across Essex the chance to open new doors for their futures.”
Gaining English and maths qualifications allow individuals to pursue further studies, apprenticeships, and unlock new career paths. Employers value strong literacy and numeracy skills, and they can make a huge difference when it comes to career progression. Passing English and maths are also essential for many in-demand jobs, such as health and social care, nursing, and early years.
The Essex Year of Opportunity is led by Essex County Council and is encouraging people to discover a world of possibilities. The campaign is helping people of all ages and backgrounds take their next step towards a brighter future. The yearlong initiative will help Essex residents recognise which skills are needed to thrive.
To discover more, visit Essex Year of Opportunity | Essex Year of Opportunity