Jessica's route into youth work through volunteering

Volunteering has led to a full-time job for Teesside graduate Jessica Herron.

Jessica, 21, of Sunderland, graduated in 2010 with a BSc (Hons) Psychology. She is now working as a support worker with a service which provides specialist services for children with complex needs.

And Jessica feels that the time she spent volunteering as a student helped her to embark on her career path in youth work.

She said: ‘During my third year I registered with Volun-Tees and found an opportunity to work locally with a youth organisation called Kidz Konnekt, a project in South Bank, working with eight to 19-year-olds.

‘I started volunteering with them in March 2010 and continued with them after graduating from University. I started volunteering once a week at one of the youth nights run by Kidz Konnekt and as time passed and the project expanded I was asked to volunteer on day trips and on an additional night during the week.

‘I was also offered the chance to complete various courses through Kidz Konnekt, all of which have helped me to gaining valuable experience in youth work.’

Enhancing her skills Jessica added: ‘Through volunteering I've been able to enhance my skills and learn more about youth work. The encouragement I received from Kidz Konnekt had such an impact on my confidence levels, which led me to apply for my current job.

‘Experience is highly valued within many workplaces and I would definitely recommend volunteering to anyone who wants to gain experience and enhance their skills before leaving University.’

Becki Prout, Youth Development Officer with Kidz Konnekt, said: ‘Jessica has learned many vital skills through volunteering, both through hands-on youth experience and extensive training. She is an asset to the team as are all volunteers and she will be sadly missed.

‘Jessica empowered many young people while volunteering with us and I am sure she will do extremely well in her new career. Volunteering is exceptionally important to gain fundamental skills which can prove essential when looking for employment.’

Jayne Villiers, the University’s Volunteer Co-ordinator, said: ‘Volunteering is a great way for our students to enhance their employability skills and give back something to the local community at the same time. I'm delighted that Jessica's volunteering experience has helped her achieve paid employment.’

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