On Monday, 23rd March, Lan Leeder, Head of Education at the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA), attended the Islington Full Potential programme that supports care-experienced young people by offering internship placements, personalised work readiness coaching, targeted functional skills tutoring, and access to entry-level employment opportunities.
To date, the programme has engaged nearly 50 care-experienced young people. This event brings together Islington’s young people who are eager to explore career opportunities, build confidence, and connect with employers who can support them in taking their first steps into meaningful, sustainable employment.
Young people face various barriers to employment, and the event plays a vital role in boosting their confidence, raising aspirations, and helping them understand what’s possible. This micro-engagement event also offers an excellent opportunity for FEL to strengthen its connection with the local community.
Aims of the event:
• Share current or upcoming vacancies
• Showcase the fashion industry, career pathways, and routes into employment
• Offer insight opportunities, including work experience or job shadowing
• Engage directly with young people in a supportive, informal environment
Lan Leeder said: “It’s great to connect with the young people; we understand their needs, particularly those facing multiple challenges. We have some exciting courses and events happening at FEL, and the ones that I spoke to have all signed up for the upcycling classes.”