Reece's Success Story: Breaking Down Barriers for Individuals with Disabilities

Strategic Insights -

Reece, a student with moderate learning difficulties, attended Hive College between 2021 and 2024 on the Live Programme. With the support of the college and Serco Leisure, Reece secured a year-long internship at one of the leisure centers operated by Birmingham City Council. Despite a challenging statistic of less than 5% of adults with learning disabilities in paid work, Reece's hard work and preparation ultimately led to him being offered a job on the cleaning team at Northfield Leisure Centre. The success of Reece's internship and employment is a testament to the collaboration between Hive College, Serco Leisure, and Birmingham Community Leisure Trust.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reece, a student with moderate learning difficulties, attended Hive College on the Live Programme from 2021 to 2024, which aims to support students with moderate learning difficulties to move into paid work through work placements and supported internships.
  • The college worked with Serco Leisure and Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) to secure Reece a year-long internship at one of the nine leisure centers operated by BCLT.
  • Despite a challenging statistic of less than 5% of adults with learning disabilities in paid work, Reece's hard work and preparation ultimately led to him being offered a job on the cleaning team at Northfield Leisure Centre.
  • The Hive College team expertly supported Reece through the interview process, enabling him to prepare and feel confident.
  • Gary Tempest, General Manager for BCLT, highlighted the potential in young people with disabilities and stated that Serco Leisure and BCLT are willing to help learners with disabilities achieve their aspirations of paid work.
  • The collaboration between Hive College, Serco Leisure, and BCLT is a testament to the power of partnership in breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities.
  • Ruth Martin, Placements Coordinator at Hive College, praised Serco Leisure and BCLT for their dedicated support and commitment to helping learners with disabilities achieve their goals.

Statistics:

  • Less than 5% of adults with learning disabilities in paid work (statistic mentioned in the text)
  • Reece was offered a job on the cleaning team at Northfield Leisure Centre after completing his year-long internship

Sources:

  • "https://hivecollege.org.uk"
  • "https://birminghamleisure.com"