SWAP for success: sector-based programmes yield real results for jobseekers

Thanks to specialist employability programmes, Capital City College (CCC) has supported even more jobseekers into employment.

CCC’s Employability Department runs a range of Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes, also known as SWAPs. These short, targeted courses last between one and five weeks, and provide essential employability opportunities for those actively looking for work. 

Aubrey Mpengula, Liaison Officer for Vocational Employability at CCC, organises the SWAPs by working closely with Job Centres and other welfare-to-work organisations. The SWAPs help those seeking employment to develop their skills and provide valuable support as they approach new opportunities. 

Earlier this year, CCC partnered with Residential Living Recruitment (RLR) who were recruiting for new-build residential developments across London. The company supported the college in training a cohort of 20 Job Centre candidates in customer service based on the employer’s requirements. Other leading employers, including Taylor Wimpey, have also taken part in SWAPs to connect with skilled candidates. As part of the programme, RLR Co-founder Matt Halfpenny and Partner Francis Winn-Reed met with candidates to talk about the roles and offer their industry insight.

Following completion of the programme, 13 of the applicants attended online group interviews, followed by individual sessions at the college’s Tottenham campus. The applicants made the most of the opportunity, showing that they had carried out relevant research and prepared thoroughly for their interviews.

The SWAP and accompanying events were highly successful, with eight candidates progressing to second-round interviews and employment offers.

The Employability Department runs three SWAPs each month focusing on Security, Construction Skills Certification Scheme (SCSC) Green Card, and Warehouse and Forklift. Thanks to strong relationships across a range of industries, employers also contact the college when vacancies arise, enabling them to run custom programmes to support potential candidates. In December, the college also ran a pilot SWAP for a local bespoke shoemaker, one of only two remaining in the UK. 

One former candidate who finished a SWAP, said: “To Residential Living Recruitment, thank you for the time you gave me personally. In speaking with you, I gained a real insight into your world: the complexities of residential living, the heart behind lettings, and everything it entails. It was eye-opening, inspiring, and deeply appreciated. And to Aubrey and Patsy thank you for collaborating with me, guiding me, and showing me the way. Your leadership and generosity made today possible.”

Looking to transition into employment but not sure where to start? To enhance existing skills or develop new ones, take a look at our Employability skills courses.

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