First Steps – Take your next step with confidence

Thinking about your future can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start. First Steps is designed to help you move forward with confidence, offering the right support, skills and encouragement at the right time.

First Steps is a supportive, confidence-boosting programme for care-experienced young people aged 16 to 24 living in North Ayrshire. It’s aimed at those who are considering their next steps and would benefit from guidance, practical experience and the chance to build belief in themselves.

Delivered in a friendly, relaxed and welcoming environment, First Steps focuses on helping young people feel comfortable, valued and supported. The programme provides a safe space to try new things, meet other young people and begin planning what comes next without pressure or judgement.

Whether your goal is employment, college, training or volunteering, First Steps helps you explore your options and work towards a positive future that’s right for you.

Throughout the programme, participants gain a wide range of practical, hands-on skills that employers and training providers value, including:

• First Aid certification
• Food hygiene qualifications
• Cooking skills
• Barista training

These qualifications not only build your CV but also increase your confidence and readiness for the workplace.

First Steps places strong emphasis on personal development. Alongside vocational skills, the programme includes confidence-building activities that help you grow as a person, such as:

• Teamwork and communication exercises
• Problem-solving challenges
• Opportunities to work towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award

These experiences help you gain independence, resilience and a sense of achievement that carries into all areas of life.

No two journeys are the same. That’s why First Steps offers tailored work experience opportunities and personalised support, helping you understand your strengths and identify realistic, meaningful next steps.

Staff work closely with participants to create clear progression routes, whether that’s moving into a job, enrolling in education, starting training or taking part in volunteering.

The programme has a proven track record, with most participants progressing into work, education or training after completion.

Participants who fully engage with the programme can receive £55 per week, helping to reduce financial pressure and allowing you to focus on learning, development and progression.

First Steps is part of the council’s Working North Ayrshire employability programme, which is committed to helping young people overcome barriers, build confidence and achieve positive outcomes.

Ready to take your first step?

The next First Steps course begins on 22 April 2026. If you’d like to find out more or apply, email working@north-ayrshire.gov.uk.