100% success: Harlow College’s path out of NEET

Harlow College developed the Choices programme to provide young people with meaningful options and the support needed to take control of their futures. The programme offers two qualifications: the Gateway Qualifications Level 1 Progression Diploma and a smaller, entry-level certificate qualification for learners who need additional support.

The programme takes a holistic approach and is centred on creating a supportive and nurturing environment for students. This is achieved through ongoing mentorship, tailored learning and emotional support. The aim is not to provide a short-term solution, but to equip young people with the skills, confidence and resilience needed to progress into further education, training or employment.

Learners completing the programme achieved strong progression outcomes, with 37% moving on to study a course at another college, 26% progressing to the next level within the Choices programme, and 23% entering employment. Last year the programme supported 50 learners, and this year participation has more than doubled, reflecting growing demand and the impact of the provision.

This demonstrates the importance of flexible pathways for young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), and the value of offering accessible routes at Level 1 and below to support successful transition into further learning or work.