BEDWORTH teenager Kieran Bolton has started his first full-time job after enrolling on Wasps Rugby Club’s education and employability programme.
Kieran, 17, enrolled on Wasps HITZ programme after feeling traditional education was not working for him.
He has now started working as a part picker at automotive supplier Park Sheet Metal in Exhall after impressing during his over 80-hour work placement with the firm, organised by the HITZ programme.
The HITZ programme works with 16 to 19-year-olds looking to improve their maths and English, as well as helping them develop valuable life skills and earn qualifications which help them in their careers.
The programme also looks to organise work experience placements such as Kieran’s with local employers.
Over 70 per cent of young people who enroll on HITZ go on to further education, training or employment.
Kieran said: “Since starting the programme with Wasps it has been perfect for me.
“I don’t think I would have got an opportunity like this without HITZ.
“It’s a nice environment, the work isn’t too difficult but you still get a challenge from it.
“It makes you feel comfortable in your ability.”
Head of community at Wasps, Ian Isham, added: “Kieran has had to deal with a lot of challenges from an early age.
“Throughout the programme he has grown in confidence, his contribution in the classroom is fantastic and he has built great relationships with fellow students.
“To be able to deliver HITZ, it’s essential that we have the support of businesses with traineeships.
“We would welcome any business to get in touch with Wasps to see how they can get involved and support these young people.”
