News & Events

UP & Working head in a New Direction

Wed, 22 April 2009

UP & Working’s Employer Liaison Officer Edwin Baker is currently working closely with vocational training centre New Directions following their recent opening.

New Directions, based off St Andrews Road in Aspley offer teenagers aged 14 – 16 disillusioned with school the opportunity to learn practical skills. From plastering and joinery to boxing and jujitsu, New Directions provide youngsters with a fresh start whilst also continuing their academic education.

One of the four founders Peter Rowe commented “we have a holistic approach to education taking each individual’s specific needs into consideration. We don’t follow a strict timetable and we try to ensure that everyone completes a qualification in a practical subject”.

The founders of New Directions are currently running the centre and delivering the courses themselves, therefore UP & Working will be working with them to implement a management infrastructure that will enable the business to grow.

Edwin will be helping New Directions secure the required funding necessary that will allow them to increase their capacity and employ staff capable of managing the day to day running of the centre. In return New Directions will look to offer job brokerage opportunities, providing UP & Working beneficiaries with potential job opportunities. 

Local Business Development Agency Boston Clarke will also be working closely with New Directions to provide them with some promotional advice and mentor them on certain business matters including leadership and development.

Boston Clarke has recently received support from UP & Working and in return has become an Employer Champion. UP & Workings network of Employer Champions is made up of local businesses across all industries committed to the development of their own workforce. Champions inspire and galvanise other businesses into action by acting as ambassadors to their peers, suppliers, clients and other business partners.

New Directions have partnerships with various local businesses including mechanics, plumbers and electricians, which they utilise to deliver job placements to their year 11 students. They are constantly looking to add to their partnerships and are currently looking for a potential sponsor for their football team.

If you are interested in New Directions and would like to speak to a member of the team please call 01484 422554.