18-year-old Johnson from Doncaster wins Central YMCA’s 2023 Pre-Apprentice of the Year
At this year’s awards ceremony held at the House of Commons, Johnson said, “I always dreamed of being in London but never in Parliament, so it’s just a great experience.”
Choosing his pathway
Johnson was referred to Central YMCA whilst at school and attended a Pre 16 programme which he enjoyed. He found the staff friendly and supportive when completing his qualifications, but Johnson didn’t feel ready for college. Johnson stayed with Central YMCA and attended an Employability Study Programme because he wanted to work towards achieving his GCSEs.
Achieving with Central YMCA
While in the Pre 16 programme, Johnson achieved Level 2 Maths Functional Skill, Entry 3 English Functional Skill as well as an NCFE Personal and Social Development Award.
On the Study Programme, Johnson worked towards GCSE Maths and English and NCFE Level 2 Employability Skills. He gained a grade 4 in Maths, a grade 3 in English and passed the Employability Award. While on programme, his work experience placement was with the Regent Hotel.
As he didn’t feel ready for employment, he decided to return to Central YMCA to work towards a Traineeship and his work experience placement agreed for him to continue. He continues to attend his work experience at The Regent on weekends and evenings and hopes to achieve a 4 in GCSE English this year.
Looking to the future
Before Central YMCA Johnson wasn’t very sociable and rarely spoke to people he did not know, but now he feels more confident, has improved his self-esteem and now has a better outlook on life. He’s still unsure of what he would like to do in the future but knows he now has more opportunities to a brighter future.
When Johnson talks about his hopes for the future, he said, “I’m currently in hospitality so I’m hoping with the people skills it will help me move into management positions as well.”
Johnson’s advice
“Just try, if you fail, you can try again, like I’m doing with my GCSEs. If you fail, you can do it again and again and again.”
