Once again the highly commended model KDS Training use, of four weeks intensive training in soft skills and confidence building mixed with hard skills employer-led modules, has made a positive impact. 32 previously unemployed candidates have graduated and have secured employment as Seasonal Gardeners with Renfrewshire Council. As unemployment across the UK reaches £2.5Million, it is rare to hear positive news of what is being pro-actively achieved through public and private/commercial partnerships. KDS Training are one such enterprise who have successfully partnered with the Job Centre Plus, Renfrewshire Council and other employability groups, to make an impact on local unemployment. They refer to the four week Academy as “The Journey” which each candidate takes in self discovery. As the training plan continues through the four weeks, the candidates covered modules on Health & Safety, First Aid and the Safe Use of Power Tools, as well as continuing to challenge candidates on seeing they already have their own transferable skills that an employer would look for. Team building is crucial and as part of the course an element of Health and Fitness was included to challenge candidates to see they can achieve more than they thought possible. KDS Training call this, “Mind Over Matter” when a circuit course is completed at a Boxing Gym, evidence again one of the many partnerships. One unique element was taking all the candidates to a specially devised Activity Day at an Outdoor Activity Centre. Friendships were cemented, new ones made and a team spirit throughout allowed further personal change in the attitudes and confidence of the individuals. The next and final part of the journey is the one week work trial next week, and then into full time employment. Each candidate has taken much on board, each has matched KDS’ energy and commitment to see employment achieved and as a result 32 are heading positively into employment.