Pathways Programme helps young participant to navigate her first steps in the council

Daisy first attended a discovery day at the council headquarters where she learned about the programme and shared her interests, which led to her being matched with a placement in Children’s Services, working on the Child Friendly Salford project.

Daisy was placed under the guidance of Clare Hopton, Business Manager in the Commissioning Partnerships and Early Help Service. Clare and her team were committed to providing a nurturing environment:

We really believe strongly in creating opportunities that help young people build confidence, gain valuable skills, and feel supported in the workplace. We wanted this area of work to benefit from fresh perspectives and enthusiasm that a young person could bring.”

From the outset, Daisy was welcomed and supported. She had no prior office experience, but quickly adapted, learning to use email, create presentations, and contribute to meetings confidently.

“I’d never even used a computer before,” Daisy admitted. “Now I can send emails, do presentations, and use Word.”

Clare was impressed by Daisy’s adaptability and professionalism:

She just fit perfectly into the environment. She introduced herself in meetings, contributed when asked, and came across as confident, even if she didn’t feel it.”

The programme allowed Daisy to explore various roles, including youth work, admin support, and project co-ordination. While she appreciated the experience, she discovered that direct youth engagement wasn’t the right fit for her.

Recognising Daisy’s evolving interests, Clare and the team adapted her placement. Daisy expressed a passion for working with young children, particularly in a nursery setting. The team responded by arranging a four-week trial at Winton Nursery, supported by tailored training modules created by Pastoral and Placement Co-ordinator, Shelly Naughton. Whilst Daisy awaits this placement, the team have arranged for Daisy to work alongside the Family Hub Practitioners in the Irlam and Cadishead area to support the delivery of parent and toddler groups.

“We’ve been reviewing and reflecting throughout,” Clare said. 

Despite the shifts in focus, Daisy made meaningful contributions to the Child Friendly Salford Project. She helped design engagement materials, tested surveys, created agendas, and even developed social media guides.

“Daisy’s guides have helped us understand how to use these platforms to reach young people,” Clare noted.

Daisy is now trialling her nursery placement, with hopes of progressing into an apprenticeship. The flexibility of the programme has allowed her to explore different paths and gain clarity on her career goals.

“I just want to see what it’s like in the nursery,” Daisy said. “I’m looking forward to doing something really practical.”

Clare believes the programme is vital for bridging the gap between education and employment:

Young people don’t always get the support they need in school or know what route to take. This programme helps them build confidence, develop practical skills, and understand what it’s like to be part of a professional team.”

“Be curious, ask questions, take every opportunity. Your perspective is valuable and can make a real difference.”

Daisy wholeheartedly recommends the programme:

Even if you don’t know what you want to do, they help you figure it out. It’s been really supportive.”

Cohort two of the programme has now moved into placements across the council, with cohort three scheduled to start in January 2026.