David makes most of Vantec opportunity

Thanks to his experience in the Harrison Centre World of Work Zone at the Beacon of Light, David Little secured full-time employment with Sunderland-based company ‘Vantec’.

Since leaving school aged 16 in 2017, David Little has been with the Foundation of Light as a participant, joining the charity’s Back on Track and Futsal Scholarship programme.

When David first embarked on the two respective programmes, he would often distance himself from group tasks, causing a knock-on effect on his already low confidence.  

Not only did David struggle with his self-esteem, he was also unable to pinpoint his ideal career path and was hesitant in making decisions that would affect his future. 

Nonetheless, through the help of Foundation staff and combining both programmes together, David’s hard work and perseverance would eventually pay off.

With both programmes ending and unsure about his next steps, David started to experience anxiety. It was then he was told about a potential two-week work placement with Vantec – a logistics solution provider in the automotive parts logistics field.

Determined to grab the opportunity with both hands, David quickly accepted the proposal put forward to him by Foundation staff, with the latter eager to help David prepare as efficiently as possible.

Ahead of his work experience placement in August 2022, David was supported with interview preparation, he received help updating his CV and was provided with useful information around Vantec and who they were as a business.

Despite being very hesitant in the early exchanges of his two-week placement, David grew in confidence, completing tasks on his own and using his own initiative.

While on placement, David was also supported financially, receiving lunch and travel bursaries. Regular site visits were made to catch up with David enabling Foundation staff to find out how he was getting on and if he needed any further support.

At the end of his placement, Vantec offered David a full-time contract. Although Vantec staff felt he still had a lot to learn, they were very impressed with David’s attitude and dedication, which ultimately played a key part in David gaining full-time employment.

Anthony Parkinson, a Skills Officer at the Foundation of Light, has built a good rapport with David, helping him to become more work ready. He said: “David is the epitome of how the Foundation of Light can transform someone's life.

“Staff that have worked previously with David over the years are really proud of how far he has come. Through hard work and determination, David deserves this opportunity.”

David continues to work at Vantec with his employers very impressed with his development. He added: “I’m loving it so far. I really like it here. Thank you to the Foundation of Light for helping me get this opportunity.”

You can view all of our Adult Learning Accredited Courses including our three-week Vantec course here.