Building Confidence Through Learning: KM’s Journey with YEP

KM’s experience with YEP shows how tailored support and a welcoming environment can help young people rediscover learning and grow in confidence. Through functional skills sessions and one-to-one guidance, K is now working towards nationally recognised qualifications and building the foundations for future success.

Introduction

YEP is a UK Government-funded initiative through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supporting disadvantaged young people aged 16–24 in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Launched in January 2024, the project runs until March 2026, focusing on those who are NEET or at risk of NEET, have SEN, or belong to other vulnerable groups.

This case study follows K, a young person who was at risk of becoming NEET and not attending mainstream education. K joined Yep! to rebuild confidence and work towards essential English and maths qualifications in a supportive, non-traditional learning environment.

Our Role

Real Ideas worked closely with K to identify barriers and create a clear pathway towards employability. K lacked confidence and needed a flexible approach to learning. Our role was to provide personalised guidance and connect K with opportunities that felt accessible and positive.

What We Delivered

To support K, we began with one-to-one sessions led by our Pathways Co-ordinator, Louise Turner, focusing on identifying practical steps toward employability and building confidence. These conversations helped K set realistic goals and understand the importance of developing core skills.

Alongside this, K attended weekly Functional Skills sessions at County Hall in Truro, delivered by Caitlin Jones from Plymouth Argyle. These sessions provided a relaxed and friendly environment where K could work toward Level 2 English and maths without the pressure of a traditional classroom. The approach encouraged K to commit to regular attendance, improve timekeeping, and engage socially with others—skills that are vital both personally and professionally.

Through these experiences, K learned how to break goals into manageable steps, communicate effectively, and maintain consistency. Leaving home to attend sessions was a significant achievement in itself, marking a turning point in K’s confidence and independence.

Impact

The impact of this support has been transformative. K is now actively working toward Level 2 Functional Skills in English and maths, with exams scheduled for February. More importantly, K’s confidence has grown noticeably—he now feels comfortable starting conversations and sharing stories with peers and tutors, something that once felt daunting.

Attending sessions has shifted K’s mindset about learning. What once seemed intimidating now feels achievable and even enjoyable, thanks to the welcoming atmosphere created by Louise, Caitlin and the team. This progress means K is no longer at immediate risk of becoming NEET and is building a strong foundation for future education or employment.

As K puts it, the biggest benefit has been discovering that studying can feel positive: “Attending sessions with Caitlin has made studying maths and English an option as it is a friendly, relaxed environment.”

Testimonials

“K has shown fantastic commitment to attending sessions and working towards their goals. It’s been brilliant to see their confidence grow and their attitude towards learning change.”
— Louise Turner, Real Ideas Pathways Co-ordinator

“I really enjoy sessions as it gets me out of the house and I meet people. I prefer lessons not being like school or college – Caitlin is a vibe.”
— K

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