Building Confidence Through a Supported Apprenticeship
When Jordan Linstead began his Supported Apprenticeship with Little Gate Farm, he was taking an important step towards greater independence and a career in health and social care. His apprenticeship was the first of its kind in East Sussex, creating a new pathway into employment for a young person with learning disabilities.
Jordan completed his placement at Southlands Care Home in Bexhill, where he developed a broad range of practical skills across hospitality and health and social care. With support from Little Gate Farm, his employer and training provider Dynamic Training, Jordan worked towards his Level 2 Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care, alongside his Level 2 Care Certificate Diploma and Functional Skills qualifications.
The journey was not without its challenges. Jordan has dyslexia, which made some of the academic elements of the apprenticeship more difficult, as well as autism, which meant meeting new people and managing multiple tasks could sometimes feel challenging. He also experiences difficulties with fine motor skills and low muscle tone, so practical adaptations, including adapted cutlery, were introduced to support him when preparing food and assisting residents.
With consistent support from his job coach, Carol Wells, and Jordan’s own determination to succeed, these barriers became opportunities for growth. Over time, he made significant progress with his literacy and maths skills, became more comfortable in the workplace and developed greater confidence in his own abilities.
Reflecting on his experience, Jordan said:
“I wake up positive and never negative about going to work. I feel confident about coping on my own. I like working as part of a team. I have improved every week, learning new challenges on the job every day.”
Carol also saw a significant change in Jordan throughout his apprenticeship, describing how “he has grown in confidence. He is caring and compassionate.”
Jordan’s success also demonstrated what can be achieved when employers, training providers and supported employment teams work closely together. As one of the first Supported Apprenticeships of its kind locally, there were challenges around establishing the programme and navigating funding processes. Open communication and a shared commitment to making the apprenticeship work helped the team overcome these early barriers.
Jordan’s journey highlights the importance of finding the right vocation, providing clear workplace structures and ensuring apprentices have people around them who understand how best to support them. With the right opportunities, adjustments and encouragement, Jordan was able to build his skills, grow in confidence and take meaningful steps towards a future in employment.
