Future Makers Case Study: Theo
Earlier this year the Goldfinger Academy was delighted to launch our new Future Makers traineeship programme. Aimed at local residents aged 16-29 who are not in work or education, the initiative teaches woodworking and design skills, provides beneficiaries with hands-on work experience, career guidance and portfolio preparation, and helps them progress into employment.
In August we welcomed our first group of talented trainees, who had a keen interest in joinery and architecture, into our workshop. One of our Future Makers, 16-year-old Theo, was introduced to us through Construction Youth Trust, a charity that helps young people build careers in construction and the built environment. Theo initially felt hesitant about undertaking work experience:
“I’m sure I’m not alone in this, but since lockdown we’ve all been a lot more anti-social. Going back to speaking to people has been weird.”
With the help of his Construction Youth Trust coach, Theo was introduced to carpentry and joinery career paths, which he thought “shined the brightest”, and made him excited for the future.
Theo joined us at Goldfinger for a week of hands-on experience in our workshop. Working closely with our Impact and Design teams, he gained practical design and craft skills, learning how to design and construct a stool in just a few days.
“My favourite part of the placement was being hands-on in the workshop, side by side with professionals, as it’s a great way to learn!”
We were delighted to offer Theo the opportunity to spend a week alongside our team of Designer Makers. With invaluable work experience, an understanding of his future career goals, and a renewed passion for design and woodworking, Theo is now actively looking for a full-time apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery.
Supporting the Goldfinger Academy will help us to welcome more Future Makers into our workshop, helping young people in our community to build their confidence and skills and break into design and craft careers.
