Transition to Work / Trade

Established in 2019 by John Alexander, Alexander Community Development (ACD) was launched with the primary goal of giving back something into the City of Dundee. John held a passionate belief that children and young adults were being left behind within a challenging education system, and as a result their future life opportunities were limited.

John's own background saw him leaving school at the age of 15 with no qualifications, however, with mentoring and guidance he grew & developed a passion for the construction sector, becoming a qualified Painter & Decorator and eventually setting up Alexander Decorators Limited in 2002 and establishing them as one of Dundee's largest Painting & Decorating firms with a team of over 40.

In reflecting on his own journey John saw an opportunity to give back, providing that support / mentoring & guidance to children and young adults. From this Alexander Community Development began with John supported by his passionate team including Dhani Robb (Project Co-Ordinator) and Anne-Marie Robb (Senior Trainer / Manager).

The aim of the Transition to Work / Trade programme is to address the drop off in attainment within a large percentage of children / young adults. Working with schools and other partners to show those individuals the varied paths & careers that are open to them within the Construction Sector whilst maintaining their attendance at school, improving discipline and providing purpose for those who may have exited full time education. The programmes offered by ACD provide the foundation skills giving that purpose & goals focus and guide individuals into the world of work and financial independence building a rewarding career and the benefits that this brings personally and to the community at large. 

Over recent years we have seen a huge increase in the use of technology within the employment market. This has identified another skills shortage / gap. The lack of IT accessibility and knowledge has become apparent alongside limited numeracy skills.

Whilst ACD provided the training / learning to make their service users ready for employment with qualifications and onsite experience, they noticed that the individuals needed support in the application process. Navigating online applications, testing etc. 

As many of the children / young adults don't have access to computer systems at home, ACD would look to invest the additional resource into buying a supply of iPads / Tablets so that they can provide training on the use of these items, again, providing a valuable resource and experience. These additional tools help round off the individuals skills set.

The equipment would also be used to improve general numeracy which is a key component within all employment situations.

The Transition to Work / Trade project will not stop with Construction as ACD look to launch programmes including Transition to: Social Care, Hospitality, Admin, Child Care, Beauty, Hairdressing, Digital.

“Transition to Trade has had a massive impact on me, it has changed my mindset to life and opened my eyes to world of work. Everything about the course was fantastic especially the way Dylan and John delivered the course, since finishing the course I have gained employment at Invertay Homes.”

HAMZA AL-SHAMALI (24)
Transition to Trade Candidate