The King’s Trust is a 12-week course that focuses on community work, team building, and life skills. Our latest cohort of around 108 students has just graduated, our largest group yet, following the move to a purpose-built campus.
As part of the course, students take part in a residential trip, spending one or two nights away while learning essential life skills and trying activities such as archery, rope climbing, canoeing, and more.
They also complete community projects, including internal and external painting at Portland Leisure Centre, teaching infant classes at Notts County, creating over 150 food banks, and gardening for Mesopotamia.
We spoke to Catherine McDonald, Senior Lead for the Kings Trust at Nottingham College about the accomplishments of the students and she said:
“Our students have been amazing. They walk through the doors on day one not knowing what to expect. The skills they learn on the course really push them out of their comfort zones, but by the end of the 12-week program, they are completely transformed.
Many arrive unsure of what they want to do, where they fit, and often with low confidence. By the time they finish, they leave with a clear plan of action, whether that’s an apprenticeship or a higher-level course.
We hold a graduation to celebrate their achievement. Some of our students have come from challenging backgrounds, so it’s incredibly rewarding to mark the last 12 weeks and their success alongside friends and family!”
We also spoke to Tim Clark, the Team Development Programme Lead for the East Midlands Kings Trust. He spoke about the
“We’re really proud. It’s a day dedicated to the learners, and we keep the focus on them, but it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the strong partnership we have here in Nottingham between The King’s Trust and Nottingham College.
The venue is unique, with an entire floor now devoted to learners on The King’s Trust programme.”
We also caught up with Matthew Wilkinson, who just graduated from the Kings Trust course. He said:
“I really enjoyed meeting new people and building my confidence in teamwork.
My goal is to get my CSCS card so I can work in construction, and also complete my maths and English qualifications.
This course has helped me so much, it made me realise that construction is the path I want to follow.”
A huge congratulations to all the students who have graduated, and best of luck with your next steps. We’d also like to thank all the staff and The King’s Trust for supporting them throughout this challenging but rewarding journey.
“I really enjoyed meeting new people and building my confidence in teamwork.
My goal is to get my CSCS card so I can work in construction, and also complete my maths and English qualifications.
This course has helped me so much, it made me realise that construction is the path I want to follow.”
A huge congratulations to all the students who have graduated, and best of luck with your next steps. We’d also like to thank all the staff and The King’s Trust for supporting them throughout this challenging but rewarding journey.
