Impact is key to what we do, so we are always seeking to evaluate our services in the light of feedback and available data. There is an unavoidable time lag in collation of overall key data, which is reliant upon reporting after the end of each Academic Year. Milestone reporting on specific activities is always possible though, through the ongoing data recorded on our Knowledge Management System (KMS).
Our programme provision continues to evolve in content in order to respond to the requirements of both a changing curriculum and the schools and young people we serve. There is therefore data that is common to our wider operation, as well as more specialised data that can be drawn upon for our work in specific areas.
“SkillForce is a highly successful programme which has the potential to turn around the lives of disaffected young people. Participating young people demonstrate major improvements in attendance, behaviour, punctuality, and the use of bad language with fewer exclusions and fewer incidents of aggressive behaviour. There are improvements in their personal development, academic attainment and aspirations.” ‘Evaluation of SkillForce Zero Exclusions Pilot,’ Institute of Education, University College London, 2013
We are proud of the evidence of impact that we have gathered so far on our long-running programmes. The following Key Data, drawn from the academic year 2013/14, together with a sample of the Feedback we have received and the Inspiring Stories of those participating in our programmes demonstrate the significant value of SkillForce’s intervention in the lives of young people.
“Students at the unit develop improved social skills and the ability to work with adults. These, along with the academic qualifications, prepare them well for the next stage in their education or the world of work.” (feedback from an OFSTED visit to a SkillForce Back on Track programme in South Shields, 2013)
In the final analysis, our greatest champions are the young people themselves. Here is a selection of their assessments of our work:
The Skillforce program has really inspired me to go the extra mile in all my work. It has also taught me how to work in a team and to be the best I can be. The best 2 years I have had in school.
Adam.
"I work harder now I know I’m not useless" … "SkillForce has helped me with my learning" … "SkillForce has made me a better person because I used to not be good at anything" … "SkillForce has helped me to stop giving up" … "I am more confident" … "I work as part of a team at home now" … "BIG difference at school – hardly getting into trouble now"
Quotes from a Student Voice Group
"When I first started working with SkillForce I did not enjoy working with others because I did not know what to do. Now I always get involved in team activities and enjoy taking part. It has helped me to get on with others and accept responsibility."
Peter.
"I have improved my communication and teamwork skills a lot by taking part in lots of discussions and giving explanations."
Emma.
"SkillForce has changed my life. It has helped me develop my self-confidence and team-building skills. It has taught me new skills that can help me get a job. It has also shown me I can push myself and improve."
Student on an 'Onto Next Steps' programme.
"I thought I was useless, SkillForce changed my mind" … "I do what I want without being embarrassed" … "I’m confident to speak in public" … "SkillForce makes me want to try hard and do my work" … "I didn’t always try my best but now I do and I get more things done, quicker and better."
Quotes from a Student Voice Group
"I’m always learning at SkillForce. I’m calmer and my behaviour and attitude has improved. They talk to me. I feel respected. I’m going in the right direction and they are helping me find an apprenticeship."
Danny.
"I enjoy school more because of SkillForce. I like the way we learn. I feel more confident to try things - it doesn’t matter if it doesn’t go right first time anymore, and I know I can keep it going with the SkillForce Instructors, you can actually talk to them because they are on our level, and - they’re less like teachers and more like friends, who can give you advice and confidence."
Teegans.
"When I used to go out if someone said something to me, I would take it the wrong way and I’d just like end up getting in a fight. Now if I go out and someone says something, I say ‘What d’you mean?’ I can tell now tell if someone’s messing about or being serious."
Year 10 student.
