More Choices More Chances

18 year old Christopher Roy has faced numerous obstacles in his bid to become a painter and decorator and, before he teamed up with Spark of Genius for the Get Ready for Work Programme, had all but given up on realising his dream.

“When I joined Spark of Genius I had given up hope of ever becoming a painter and decorator after failing my exams at school and my CITB as part of my pre-construction course at college,” recalls Chris, “I felt very low and most days would not attend training or if I did I went in late.”

Spark of Genius were aware of the barriers faced by Christopher, “He was extremely de-motivated and had lost confidence in his abilities to the point where he had switched off. We worked with him to overcome these and he tried a number of different work placements to find him an alternative career path. We quickly realised that his heart was still in painting and decorating.”

At this stage local painter and decorator Charles Stewart stepped in to give Christopher a second chance and offered him a work placement. “When I interviewed him he came across as a very pleasant young man. His focus on painting and decorating reminded me a bit of myself when I was young. I took him on for 8 weeks work experience and he showed a real passion for decorating, picking up everything he was shown, coming into work on time and offering to work late to help complete jobs.”

This work placement proved a massive boost to Christopher’s confidence and marked the beginning of his much dreamed of career. “Charles offered me a modern apprenticeship which I was so proud to be able to achieve. I am now in full time employment and attending college. I love my job and I am so grateful to the trainers at Spark of Genius who never gave up on me.”

If you are interested in finding out a bit more about More Choices More Chances call 0141 840 3808

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