Get Set for Success at SERC

For more than 11 years, SERC has successfully delivered the Driving to Success Project for the Downpatrick Neighbourhood Renewal Area. Fully funded by the Department for Communities, more than 300 people have successfully completed the programme through SERC. 

For 2023, the programme has been updated and will have a greater emphasis on assisting individual students to develop their career aspirations. The core aims of the course will be building student interpersonal skills, developing the writing and communication skills needed when applying for a job, and gaining a qualification to help students progress into the next steps of learning. The programme will also have more flexible class times and time will be set aside to help students engage with employers. 

Teaching and practice for the Driving Theory test remains an integral part of this programme - many previous students have highlighted how beneficial this part of the training has been. Past student Julia Hinc comments, “I thought the course was very helpful in giving me a basic understanding of a wide variety of topics when it comes to looking for employment. My tutors covered all the various aspects that arise when looking for a job right from the beginning, such as interview techniques and body language. Additionally, we got the opportunity to study for our driving theory test alongside our vocational studies. I had my driving theory test last week and I passed! I believe that the information the tutors gave me was my ticket to success. Overall, I really enjoyed the course, learning alongside my classmates as part of a team; it was a lot of fun and I found it useful for kickstarting my employment search.” 

Feedback from other past students has highlighted that participation on the programme has helped them build their confidence, boost their self-esteem and become more motivated, alongside gaining the new relevant and practical skills. Following completion of the course, many now have the confidence to continue their education at SERC or will research their employment options.  

The College is currently seeking applicants for the new Get Set for Success programme. For further information, please email Tatiana Seed: tseed@serc.ac.uk 

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.