Project SEARCH students celebrate securing jobs for B&NES

Project SEARCH students Daniel and Cameron are over the moon as they have been offered paid employment after just 6 months on the programme.

Project SEARCH is an employability programme based at Bath and North East Somerset Council, which helps young adults with learning disabilities gain the skills they need to become employed.

It is a unique programme of work based experience, originating from Cincinnati, which sees a Business (the Council) team up with an Educator (Bath College) and Supported Employment provider (Virgin Care) to run the programme.

Cameron Carpenter has secured a seasonal position working for Bath and North East Somerset Council as an assistant stock keeper.

His tasks will include: supporting with deliveries to the shops within Heritage Services, taking delivery of stock, unloading and storing in the warehouse, checking orders and maintaining a secure environment of valuable stock.

Cameron said: “I have a mix of feelings about securing the job, but I feel excited and content and looking forward to earning money.

“Project SEARCH has got me to the place where I can get a job and has helped my confidence.”

Daniel Kimmins is about to begin work for Bath and North East Somerset Council as a porter at the Roman Baths.

His tasks will include retrieving and retrieving, issuing and returning audio guides and giving a high level of customer service at this top attraction in Bath.

Daniel Said: “It means a lot to have been given this job. I’ve worked hard and made a good impression on my placement so have really bonded with the staff and the porter team at the Roman Baths.

“Through Project SEARCH I have gained skills in applying for jobs and filling out forms and it’s been great for getting me ready for interview, practicing the questions, I was very prepared.”

Catherine Stargatt, Lecturer in Foundation Learning (Project SEARCH), commented: “Since Dan and Cameron started at Project SEARCH in September 2018 they have learned valuable work related skills both in their departments and in the Project SEARCH training room in the Guildhall.

Both have showed maturity and professionalism at their time on this programme, we wish them every success in their new employment.”