In care from the age of two, 17-year-old Michael from Holbeck in Leeds lost count of the care homes and foster parents he was placed with throughout his early years.
With no stability at home Michael struggled at school with the structured routine and was eventually expelled. He was referred to Springwell Leeds, a specialist academy that provides care and education for children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. At Springwell students had the opportunity to undertake electrical and plumbing activities at Building Futures Together (BFT), and seeing how much they enjoyed it, Michael decided to give it a go.
Since attending one day per week during term time aged 14, Michael has gone on to attend the holiday programme and the 16 to 19 advanced construction course, achieve his City & Guilds Level 1 Award in Construction Skills, and secure a job with the vocational training provider, supporting and mentoring younger students. But more importantly, BFT has given Michael a safe place and changed the trajectory of his life.
Michael explains: “Attending BFT has kept me out of trouble and taken me down the right path. Before I started attending, I was getting arrested but here I feel safe and it has given me something to look forward to.
“With the support and understanding of the team, I have achieved my City & Guilds Level 1 and I’m now working toward my Level 1 Diploma in Construction. Over the four days I attend I spend Monday and Tuesday mentoring the other students and Thursday and Friday I work on my diploma. In addition, a tutor comes in to see me and is helping me work towards achieving my Maths and English Functional Skills Level 2.
“BFT has taught me so much. I have learnt how to plumb a sink, fit radiators, fix heaters, but beyond the practical side I have learnt good communication skills and it has inspired me to pursue a career in plumbing, with my ultimate aim to become a self-employed plumber.
“To anyone who is stuck and not sure what they want to do, give BFT a go. It’s hands-on and you might actually realise that you like plumbing, mechanics and electrics. One thing is for certain, you’ll be supported and it will open doors for you.”