National Employability Week (July 7-11) is all about giving young people the tools, skills, and confidence they need to step into the workplace. From boosting self-confidence to helping learners build real-world experience, ASDAN plays a vital role in shaping futures – especially for those who may need more tailored support.
ASDAN’s wide range of curriculum programmes and qualifications are hands-on, flexible and designed with the future in mind. They focus on developing core skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and independent learning – precisely the attributes employers are looking for.
Learning that goes beyond the classroom
For over 35 years, ASDAN’s pedagogy has been built around a core belief: education should be meaningful, motivating, and tailored to the individual. Our career-focused courses – such as the Employability qualification at Entry 2 to Level 2 and our Personal Development Programmes (PDP), Careers and Experiencing Work Short Course and Leadership Short Course at Entry 3 to Level 1– are designed to nurture core competencies that employers consistently value.
As Jemma Hancock, ASDAN Trustee and Head of Organisational Development and Culture at Great Western Railway (GWR), explains:
“Yes, we value technical ability – but increasingly, it’s soft skills that make the difference. These are often skills developed outside of the traditional classroom, and that’s exactly where ASDAN excels.”
Our curriculum is built around six core skills – learning, communication, decision-making, thinking, teamwork, and self-awareness – all of which are critical for workplace success and personal growth and align with what employers are looking for. These are not just tick-box outcomes. They’re embedded into practical activities that help learners build resilience, understand themselves better, and prepare for life beyond education. Activity-based, purposeful learning
Our courses take a hands-on, project-focused approach that actively engages learners. Whether it’s planning events, preparing for interviews, managing a budget, or organising community projects, ASDAN courses allow students to gain experience that mirrors the real world. Learners develop a sense of purpose and see tangible evidence of their progress, which builds both skills and self-belief.
This is particularly evident in our Employability qualification, which focuses directly on workplace readiness. It covers a wide range of topics such as applying for jobs, understanding employer expectations, and developing workplace behaviour. Similarly, our Careers and Experiencing Work Short Course and our Volunteering Short Course give learners the opportunity to explore career options, reflect on work experiences, and set clear personal goals. Check out our free downable activity packs, which include volunteering resources to help learners prepare for placements.
For those looking to take their learning further, our Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) at Level 3 carries 28 UCAS points and is unique in that it can be completed as part of work experience. It offers an in-depth opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest, develop research and presentation skills, and demonstrate independent learning – all of which are valuable assets in both higher education and the job market.
Partnering with employers for greater impact
We know that real change happens through collaboration. That’s why we work closely with employers, schools, and communities to connect learners with opportunities that match their aspirations and abilities. Businesses are seeking candidates who not only have qualifications, but who also demonstrate curiosity, adaptability, emotional awareness, and initiative.
GWR is just one example of an employer investing in structured career pathways – including apprenticeships and mentorship programmes. Jemma highlights how important it is for employers to see the value in practical learning:
“Our workforce includes five generations working side by side – and that diversity of perspective is incredibly valuable. But the transition from school to work can be tough. Young people need to feel prepared for that reality – and that’s where ASDAN plays such a vital role.”
“ASDAN is helping to bridge the gap between education and employment. It’s giving young people the personal effectiveness and confidence they need to step into opportunities – and succeed.”
Meeting national priorities in employability
The UK government’s Keep Britain Working review outlines a clear call for action: increase early intervention, remove barriers to sustained employment, and support people with additional needs to stay economically active. ASDAN’s curriculum directly supports these aims.
Our courses align directly with the Gatsby Benchmarks and often include employer engagement, site visits, and real-world challenges that allow learners to experience the workplace first-hand.
By offering flexible and accessible programmes for learners with SEND, those at risk of becoming NEET, or those disengaged from traditional education, we help build the foundations of long-term employability. Learners are supported to reflect on their development through our structured “plan, do, review” model, empowering them to set their own goals and take ownership of their learning journey.
This personalised and inclusive approach is what makes ASDAN so effective – and so essential in today’s education and employment landscape.
Investing in the future
ASDAN is more than just a course provider – it’s a charity and a catalyst for change. For young people who may not thrive in a traditional education setting, ASDAN opens up new pathways to success. It gives them the confidence to aim high, the skills to get there, and the certification to back it all up.
National Employability Week is a great way to celebrate and remind educators and employers that with the right support, every young person can build a bright and sustainable future.