Giles Delamare EPC & SIP Course Leader SEND Employability Lead
Harry first started his journey to employment during his time on the Employment Preparation course with Nido Volans Bromley. Harry was able to develop his employability skills and create a Vocational Profile with a Job Coach. From this it was apparent that Harry was most suited to working in a Library. Harry’s next step was to start his placement with support from his Job Coach at Southborough’s Library in Bromley. Harry completed the EP course and was offered a place on the Supported Internship programme the following year. Harry was then able to return to Southborough Library for his Internship, increase his hours with reduced Job Coach support.
Harry has been able to assist customers with computer queries, has received training on the use of the library management system and has set up customer memberships. Harry has also developed skills in searching for books to be transitioned to other libraries and increased his understanding of how stock is circulated between branches. Training has also been completed in the use of the library management system to receipt new books, correctly alphabetising returned books into categories. Harry has also assisted with photocopying and taking payments from library users.
Harry Bird Supported Internship student London South East Colleges
“I began on the Employment Preparation Course in 2022, and my Job Coach, Deborah Baldacci, helped me look for a work placement position in a library. I was interested in doing work experience at a place which is very quiet and very peaceful. We ended up going for Southborough Library, and I started my work experience at there in March 2023. During my time at the library, I learnt how to do such jobs as putting the returned books back on their categorical shelves and going through a list of books that needed to go back to their original libraries. Jill the manager and Jackie the librarian managed to help me learn those skills, and as time went by, I found it easy to do those jobs without any assistance. My work experience at Southborough Library then continued over to the Supported Internship course and in November 2023 I applied for a paid position and was fortunate to be called for an interview. I am now a paid employee with GLL Libraries."
Job Coach Deborah Baldacci
“Harry has discovered his true calling at Southborough Library, where he has consistently demonstrated a high level of commitment and dedication. His eagerness to acquire new skills has enabled him to gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to excel as a librarian. Thanks to his friendly disposition and sense of humour, Harry has quickly become a highly valued member of staff who is well-liked by his colleagues. Harry's commitment and exceptional dedication towards his work will undoubtedly contribute to a paid job. His strong work ethic and willingness will ensure that he continues to excel in his job and progress within the Library, Harry's employers can be confident in his ability to deliver outstanding results and make valuable contributions to the organisation.”
Jill Crawley Southborough Library Manager
“Through his consistent efforts, Harry has been working on self-confidence and improving his self-confidence. He has been taking steps to set achievable goals and facing challenges with a growth mindset. Harry is determined to continue developing his self-confidence and believes that it will help him achieve his personal and professional goals.
Harry has shown an interest in developing his teamwork skills, and it has been decided that he will be invited to attend staff meetings. By participating in these meetings, Harry will have the chance to observe how colleagues work together and communicate effectively. Additionally, he will be able to contribute to discussions, thereby honing his own teamwork abilities. This experience will be beneficial for Harry's personal and professional growth, to see him continue to develop these important skills.”
Harry has been successful in applying for a paid position at Bromley Central Library
Job Coach Deborah Baldacci
“Harry's outstanding performance in this role is inspiring. He has proven that with hard work, dedication, and a natural talent for the job, you can achieve great success (this is just the start of Harry's journey). It is a true pleasure to see Harry compensated for his exceptional work.”