Before joining City College Plymouth, Alfie was a student at Longcause Special School. Although he had a strong work ethic and a passion for physical activity, he wasn’t sure what career path to take. Despite facing challenges related to ADHD and Perthes Disease, which affects his mobility, Alfie knew he wanted to develop his skills and build his independence, but he needed support and guidance to get there.
At 16 years old, Alfie enrolled in the Skills Development: Preparation for Life and Work course at City College Plymouth. This programme gave him essential employability skills, helping him gain confidence and explore different career options.
During his time on the course, Alfie fully embraced College life. He became an active member of the College football team, completed his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and even successfully tackled the Ten Tors Challenge, proving his determination and resilience.
After gaining his qualifications, Alfie wanted to take the next step towards employment. He continued his journey through three Skills Development pathways including WorkStart where he learned essential workplace behaviours and expectations, a Supported Internship with Plymouth City Council gaining real-world experience and Project SEARCH where he undertook multiple work placements at Derriford Hospital.
Through Project SEARCH, Alfie explored different roles within recycling, waste management, and logistics. His internships at Chelson Meadow and Derriford Hospital’s incinerator gave him first-hand experience of a structured work environment, where he developed time management, teamwork skills, practical experience and the confidence to work independently.
By the end of the programme, Alfie had the skills, confidence, and ambition to apply for full-time work.
After completing Project SEARCH, Alfie successfully applied for a Waste Operative role at Plymouth City Council through Pertemps. This summer job gave him the chance to prove himself in a professional setting, and he quickly realised he wanted to pursue a long-term career in waste management.
With his growing confidence, Alfie applied for a Refuse Porter role at Derriford Hospital, a job he now holds full-time as a paid member of the Porters Team.
Alfie has not only achieved his goal of full-time employment, but he is now giving back to the College that helped him succeed. He has returned to the College to mentor new interns, sharing his experiences and encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.
Alfie said, “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t been with Skills Development.”
Alfie’s story shows how the right support, hands-on training, and structured work placements can transform lives. From uncertainty about his future to securing a full-time job in a field he loves, Alfie’s journey proves that Skills Development programmes at City College Plymouth truly change lives.If you’re interested in learning more about how Skills Development and Supported Internships can help you, visit www.cityplym.info/SkillsDevelopment.
