Module 1: Introduction to Job Readiness

Instructor Guidance

Section 1: Welcome & Warm-Up

Welcome learners warmly and create a supportive environment, explaining that the course is a fresh start to build confidence and prepare for work, whether they’re new or returning to employment. Introduce the session by saying it will help them get ready for job applications, interviews, and showcasing their strengths. Then, lead a brief warm-up activity where learners think about a job they’d love and why, followed by sharing answers. Use this to encourage participation, motivation, and goal-setting.

Section 2: Why Employment Matters

Use this section to motivate learners by highlighting that work offers more than income—it provides structure, purpose, identity, and social connection, and importantly, reduces the likelihood of reoffending by 30%. Emphasize that work brings routine, confidence, and meaning. Invite learners to discuss the personal benefits of having a job, noting their responses. Reassure them that employers value reliability, a willingness to learn, and commitment over perfection.

Section 3: Common Barriers to Employment

Lead an open discussion about the barriers to finding work after a break, helping learners feel heard and less isolated. Ask what they believe prevents people from getting jobs after release, and note responses like criminal records, lack of experience, low confidence, transportation issues, and stigma. Conclude by reassuring them that while these challenges are real, they can be overcome, and the course is designed to help build confidence, prepare effectively, and access support.

Section 4: Overcoming Barriers

Shift the focus from challenges to solutions by explaining that obstacles can be overcome. Provide examples such as short courses for those without qualifications, learning how to discuss a criminal record positively, and building confidence through preparation and support. Then ask learners to identify one barrier they might face and what could help them overcome it. Emphasize that there are tools and strategies available for every challenge.

Section 5: Personal Strengths Activity

Encourage learners to identify their personal strengths, including those gained outside paid work. Provide examples like staying calm under pressure, being reliable, listening well, solving problems, or helping others. Give them a “My 3 Strengths” worksheet to reflect on for 10 minutes. Then, have them pair up to share one strength with a real-life example. Finish by asking if anything surprised them or if someone reminded them of a forgotten skill.

Section 6: Reflection & Plenary

End the session with a moment of reflection and encouragement. Ask learners to complete the sentence, “One thing I’ve learned today is…” either silently or in writing, and invite a few to share their thoughts. Conclude by acknowledging their progress in setting goals and recognizing strengths, and preview the next session, which will focus on creating a strong CV to showcase their skills to employers.

Section 7: Careers Reflection

Tom is a BioResource Technician at Anglian Water. Tom discusses what he does in his role. What job within water industry might you interested in exploring?