Belgravia Foundation proudly acknowledges the positive impact of the Belgravia Academy Certificate I Work Education program, which champions diversity, inclusion, and workforce diversification.

Belgravia Foundation proudly celebrates the impactful work of the Belgravia Academy Certificate I Work Education program, which promotes diversity, inclusion, and workforce diversification. Designed to support post-compulsory school-age learners with permanent cognitive and/or intellectual disabilities, this program helps individuals explore work options and provides pathways to further vocational education and training.

Since its launch in April, the program has provided students with an invaluable opportunity to build essential workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, punctuality, and time awareness. It combines practical, hands-on learning experiences at WaterMarc, where students engage in various activities and develop their skills in a supportive environment. The program not only increases students' self-esteem but also prepares them for success in the workforce.

The students' feedback highlights the positive impact the program has had on them. Emma shares, “I have learnt I am a hard-worker and I am extra focused on my job. The staff have been nice to me and I feel happy at work.” For Daniel, the experience has been rewarding as well, “I feel happy doing work placement, I get to make coffees, and everyone has been very supportive to me. I talk to customers and feel at home. My dream is to work in a cafe.” These testimonials showcase the growth of confidence, skills, and self-belief in the students.

Cooper, another student, expresses the value of teamwork, “Work placement has been supportive. I have learnt I enjoy working with others and have found the experience fun. I am good at team-work and trying new things over here.” Travis also shares his sense of accomplishment: “I have enjoyed working with others. I get to work in the gym, and in the pool. I take my work seriously, I work hard. Everyone has been kind, I feel more confident in myself.”

These vibrant personalities and the energy they bring to WaterMarc have been evident as students continue to engage with the program and take part in placements across the gym, pool deck, and reception areas. The program helps foster self-confidence, work ethic, and community involvement, aligning with the overarching goal of the Belgravia Academy to provide inclusive employment opportunities and support individual growth.

Hannah, the Community Engagement Coordinator at WaterMarc, plays a vital role in facilitating the program. Along with the dedicated team at Belgravia Academy, Hannah ensures that students receive the necessary guidance and resources to thrive in their work placements, equipping them for future career success.

Belgravia Leisure and WaterMarc continue to provide these hands-on learning experiences, which offer invaluable real-world practice. These placements occur every Wednesday for two hours, giving students the opportunity to perform duties and gain practical work experience in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The Belgravia Academy Certificate I Work Education Program is a key example of how Belgravia Foundation actively champions diversity, inclusion, and workforce development. By empowering students through education and meaningful work experience, the program not only supports individual growth but also strengthens the community as a whole, ensuring that diversity and empowerment remain at the forefront of the foundation’s mission.

Through partnerships like this and the commitment to community engagement, Belgravia Foundation is helping create a more inclusive workforce where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, grow, and succeed.