Our residents have been boosting their potential

Across January and February, we collaborated with Buckinghamshire Adult Learning to provide a free, short course aimed at providing residents with a full understanding of job applications and interviews in the field of business administration. This initiative was designed for individuals looking to return to work after a childcare break, those considering a career change, or those who have been unemployed for an extended period, to use their retraining and upskilling to apply for jobs. This opportunity was extended to any residents aged 19 and above.
Throughout the course, participants gained insights into the importance of organisation and ‘people skills’ and why employers value them. They also built their confidence whilst exploring their strengths, understood the responsibilities connected with a Business Admin role and engaged in activities tailored to administrative duties. Our Community Engagement Team provided support during the session, delivering a presentation to offer understanding of working in the Housing sector. Residents registered for a number of reasons, including help with CV writing, to boost confidence in English and enhance skills to take the first step into the world of work.
Several attendees were interested in discovering more about our Involved Residents groups, attending further learning sessions, and one who has signed up to be part of our Resident Policy Review Group. One of our residents who successfully completed their ‘Boost Your Potential’ coaching course went on to apply, interview and accept an offer to join our Community Engagement Team. They are currently carrying out their apprenticeship with us.
Participants have reported that they feel more confident in applying for roles. One participant added, “For someone who's been out of work for a few years to be a full time mum, this course has given me the opportunity to gain new knowledge and techniques relevant to job search and interviews. Having that face-to-face interaction with others in the course and to hear their stories has helped me to realise that I'm not alone in this journey. Through all this as well as the most friendly and supportive staff, I feel more confident and motivated to put myself out there and find a new job.”
Janeane Osullivan, Community Engagement Officer, added, “It was fantastic to participate in the recent Boost Your Potential course and see our residents grow in confidence and skills together. The sessions, led by inspiring tutors, provided valuable insights on how to navigate the modern job market, including challenges like AI. I wish all the attendees continued success and want to thank them for being part of this journey."
For further information on this course, please visit our Boost Your Potential webpage.