Arsenal in the Community has been delivering education, employment and training programmes since the mid-1980s. Local youngster Kai is just one of the latest beneficiaries.
Project: Arsenal Employability Programme
Running time: Since 2011
Where and when: At the Arsenal Hub and venues throughout Islington and Camden
Partners: EFL Trust, the Greater London Authority and UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Lavazza, Higgins
Our work expanded in 2011 with the exciting launch of a dedicated employability offering.
Over the years, Arsenal in the Community has built a highly successful Employability Programme. Supported by funding from the EFL Trust, through the Greater London Authority and UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Training Ground programme targets 16 to 24-year-olds from Camden and Islington who are unemployed or not in education to help them find their next opportunity.
We provide employment training, including CV writing, job application support, interview skills and much more to help individuals advance their careers. Through partnerships with employers in the construction and hospitality sectors, as well as with education providers, we are also able to guide participants into employment or further education.
One of our participants, 18-year-old Kai, was born and raised in Islington. A lifelong Arsenal fan, Kai has also engaged with various Arsenal in the Community programmes over the years.
After finishing school Kai found himself at a crossroads, unsure of his next steps. Like many young people, he wanted to make a considered decision about his future and sought additional career guidance and support.
Kai joined the Advantage project and from there he was referred to Training Ground, which equips participants with employability skills.
“When I first met Kai, he was a little shy and apprehensive, but in the weeks that followed, I saw his confidence grow. Kai became a key member of our sessions, working well with others and always supporting his peers,” says Employability Coordinator Jeet Chagar.
Kai has since completed his SCA course with Lavazza, qualifying him to work as a barista.
“I really enjoyed meeting new people and stepping out of my comfort zone. I’ve gained confidence as well as knowledge on where and how to search for work,” says Kai.
After college, Kai wasn’t sure what the future held, but thanks to his time with Arsenal in the Community, he has now secured a job at a bakery in central London.
More information email Arsenal Employability Coordinator Jeet Chagar at jchagar@arsenal.co.uk.
Kai’s work with his beloved Arsenal has led to his employment as a barista
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