Thrive programme to help young people aged 18-21 backed by Mayor

The programme incorporates support to help young people thrive, get work and overcome barriers, including a six-week personal development programme which starts in January 2026.

Young people will be supported with:

• Careers and employability skills including CV writing, interview practice, employer engagement and workplace tasters;
• Personal growth and resilience including stress management, problem-solving and mindset coaching;
• Digital, music and gaming design including hands-on creative tech experiences including VR, digital art and game creation;
• Team-building projects including collaborative challenges including a bird box build and decoration;
• Healthy cooking challenge including practical budgeting and nutrition skills through cooking;
• Community and celebration including a community action project culminating in a showcase event.

Mayor Claire said: “EMCCA is proud to support Thrive because it will help young people in Nottingham not only to take their next step into work or education, but to feel valued, supported and ready to contribute to the strength of our communities and the success of our region.”

The announcement follows the appointment of Nottingham College as the lead contractor in the region’s Youth Guarantee pilot project, in partnership with Nottingham City Council.

Councillor Linda Woodings, Nottingham City Council executive member for Regional Development, Growth and Transport, said: “Working with Nottingham College to deliver this grant truly reflects the Council’s commitment to inclusive growth and supporting young people to move towards employment, education or training at a local level.

“I’m delighted to see that the Thrive personal development programme is targeting some of our most deprived areas in the North and South of the city. Working with young people from these parts of Nottingham who are not currently in education, employment or training can only help the whole city grow, but also provides our future generations with bright prospects.

“I look forward to seeing the positive effects this programme will have on our communities.”

Joshua Warwick, a development worker at Nottingham College, said:  “Thrive is more than a course, it’s a launchpad for young people to rediscover their potential. We’re excited to offer a programme that’s practical, creative and deeply supportive, helping these young people take meaningful steps towards their future.”

For more information or to refer a young person to the programme, visit the Nottingham College website or contact Joshua at joshua.warwick@nottinghamcollege.ac.uk