Elliot’s story is one of remarkable growth and perseverance. After experiencing challenges and exclusion in the mainstream school, he joined our school and, with a fresh start, reshaped his approach to learning with consistent support and tailored guidance. Through consistent encouragement, structured guidance, and access to the Futures programme, Elliot not only achieved academic success but also found meaningful employment in a field he’s passionate about. With help from the Futures Team, he secured his dream role at Network Rail, turning his lifelong interest in trains into a rewarding career and demonstrating how the right opportunities can unlock a young person’s potential.
In the Beginning
Elliot faced significant challenges in mainstream education. His previous school struggled to manage his behaviour, resulting in a fixed-term exclusion and long periods spent in isolation from his peers. This led to high levels of emotional dysregulation, limited engagement in learning, and growing frustration that hindered his personal and academic development.
When he joined our school, things changed almost immediately. He was no longer disruptive; instead, he began to engage positively with learning and, for the first time, started to thrive academically. With consistent support from the team, Elliot learned to recognise when his emotions were escalating and was taught effective coping strategies, skills he continues to apply successfully today.
Through dedication and encouragement, Elliot completed his GCSEs in Maths and English and progressed to a local college, where he earned a Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design, followed by a Level 3 Award in Graphic Design. His passion for the outdoors later inspired him to pursue a degree in Geography, beginning at the Foundation level.
Hello Futures
Several years later, Elliot’s mum reached out to the school to share her pride and excitement; he had just graduated from university. However, she also expressed concern about his next steps and whether he would find employment. The Futures Team stepped in to offer support, explaining how the programme could help connect Elliot with suitable employers and guide him through the application process.
The Futures Team reassured Elliot’s mum that employers are actively seeking neurodivergent talent, valuing their attention to detail, creativity, and innovative problem-solving skills. With this reassurance, the team began exploring suitable industries where he could use his strengths and pursue meaningful work.
Finding the Spark
Elliot had always been fascinated by trains and expressed a clear desire to work in the rail industry. The Futures Team assigned a dedicated Talent Manager, who created a tailored presentation outlining the variety of roles available within the sector. Together, Elliot and the Talent Manager met several times to update his CV, explore potential opportunities, and prepare him for job applications.
When a vacancy opened at Network Rail, the Futures Team worked closely with Elliot to tailor his CV and prepare for the interview process. Although he performed well, he was not successful in his first attempt. Undeterred, he continued working with the Futures Team, attending one-to-one interview practice sessions and maintaining communication with the employer. This persistence paid off; Elliot reapplied for the role, demonstrating greater confidence and preparation.
The Results
Elliot’s second application was successful, and Network Rail offered him a job, just three months after first contacting the Futures Team. Both Elliot and his mum were overjoyed. Not only had he secured employment in an industry he loves, but he had also proven his ability to overcome setbacks with determination and resilience.
The Futures Team continued to provide support throughout his onboarding, ensuring a smooth transition into the role. Elliot has since settled in brilliantly, demonstrating enthusiasm, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
From exclusion and uncertainty to university graduation and employment in his dream field, Elliott's story illustrates the transformative power of patience, belief, and personalised support.