The national effective transitions fund (ETF) project sought to connect disadvantaged young people in England with the education and skills they need to prepare them for their future careers, funded through the Careers & Enterprise Company. 

Locally, through the West Yorkshire Careers Hub, the two-year project focused on supporting 180 female pupils who were in receipt of Free School Meals (FSM) and had a lack of confidence and low self-efficacy.

The project was developed to support pupils in Year 10 providing them with skills, experiences, confidence, and knowledge to help with decision-making after Year 11 and what opportunities may be available in the future.  

Over the two-year project, participants were able to develop their employability skills, explore the benefits of team-working, meet different employers and industry experts, and they had the opportunity to work on their own creative projects through responding to a directed challenge or issue that has real world relevancy. 

Increased confidence and self esteem 

Results from an end of project survey demonstrated one area of considerable improvement, linked to self-confidence and belief. Pupils stated that the content of the project allowed them to express their thoughts about the future and consider the careers they would like to move into. Some also reported significant progress and new-found ease in communication and public speaking. 

“It was really fun, and I had a good time in every session with [facilitators] who are both amazing role models for the sessions. They really helped me to value myself and look forward to what’s next for me.” Batley Girls High School pupil, ETF project. 

The value of employer engagement 

As part of the project, participants were introduced to employers in the region – including, Leeds Bradford Airport, ARUP, and the energy company Equans. Company visits provided some of the most impactful engagements for participants on the programme as they provided invaluable insights into different professional worlds, bridging the gap between school and real-life careers. 

"The day [at Leeds Bradford Airport] began with an introductory welcome from the CEO of the airport Vincent Hodder. Vincent spoke to the girls about why diversity was so important in the airport. This was particularly powerful with every one of the young people being from a minority ethnic group. He talked about there not being enough females in the industry and the kind of people they would like to have working there. He talked about the ethos and the culture - how the business was like a big family…. It was really inspiring!” Teacher, Bishop Young Church of England Academy 

Intended and actual destinations 

Data collected provided strong indicators that the project has supported participants in progressing to advanced level provision beyond school. The evaluation noted a decrease in those progressing to A Level study from their intended destinations. Qualitative data and reflections from the delivery team and teachers suggest that this may be a result of participants becoming more aware of the diversity of career routes available to them towards the mid-point and final stages of the programme.  

Of the 120 participants at the end of the project, all except two secured a post 16 destination. 

Furthermore, 95% of participants reported they were satisfied with the choice of post-16 destination. 

Stakeholder feedback 

The project also sought to engage with parents through newsletters and webinars. Feedback received from parents was extremely positive. 

“My daughter has really enjoyed the project and I’ve noticed a big difference in her confidence and self-worth. My daughter still doesn’t know what she wants to do as a career, but she is not worried about not knowing. She has a more positive outlook, and things don’t seem to be affecting her as much, she has better coping mechanisms than she did before.” Parent, ETF project. 

Reaction and feedback from school staff involved in the TTF project has also been very positive. 

“The content about different careers and what it takes to get there has been really eye-opening for the girls. They’ve learnt that some more applied qualifications are more helpful and appropriate to help get them to where they want to be career-wise.” Teacher, ETF project.  

[Extracts taken from 'Effective Transitions Fund and Targeted Transitions Fund Evaluation and Impact' report, Dr D Wilkinson, June 2024]