Foundation Learning - Transforming Lives in Essex

The Foundation Learning programme operated by The NOVA Partnership is helping hundreds of young people across Essex, reported the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).

Ian Myers, Head of Post-16 Learning Provision at LSC Essex, explained: "Foundation Learning is already helping more than 1000 young people across Essex to fulfil their potential - the recruitment figures are very encouraging."

The programmes operated by The NOVA Partnership have made real differences to the lives of real people. Kushma Miah, a student at Crown College, outlined her experiences of working - and succeeding - with The NOVA Partnership's provision.

"I recently moved to Westcliff-on-Sea from London and joining the Foundation Learning programme at Crown College has really helped me settle in", Kushma said, "I have been doing the course for five months and have completed the Foundation Award and I'm just about to start working towards an NVQ - I am learning all sorts of new skills from IT to communication."

Kushma added; "What I would really like to do is work in an office so the college has arranged for me to spend two days a week at a local insurance company which I love. I do all the filing, help with photocopying, typing and general office work.The Foundation Learning programme has helped me so much. I am now working in an office and learning all the skills I will need when I go for a permanent job.

"Crown College is a fantastic place - the best - and the tutors are all really nice and kind. If anyone else is thinking of trying the programme, I would say 'go for it' as it's great and has really changed things for me."