‘Becoming who I’m meant to be’: Bhrea's move back to education

Wrapping up year 11 at school, Bhrea knew exactly what she wanted to do next. She’d long dreamed of becoming a hairdresser, and had her heart set on a Level 2 course at college. But all that seemed to fade away when she didn’t reach her target grades, with seemingly only a lower-level course still on the table. The date to start the course came and went, with Bhrea unsure of where to go.

After filling out a form which gathers data about students’ wellbeing, Bhrea was contacted for a follow-up, and referred to one of our employment advisors. Soon, she was opening up about her hairdressing aspirations, and getting advice on apprenticeships, job seeking and training.

This propelled Bhrea to take a brave step: she contacted Saints Foundation and enrolled on a training course. Next, was a 12-week development programme with the Kings Trust. Back on track, with valuable work experience, clear career goals, and a plan to sign up for an apprenticeship, Bhrea was feeling confident and social, and making new friends.

The big breakthrough came in September 2025, when Bhrea started studying full-time at Northampton College.

Bhrea said: “College isn’t just where I’m learning – it’s where I’m becoming who I’m meant to be. The future can come whenever it’s ready, because now, so am I. I’m not sure what I would do without the Shaw Trust, they helped me a lot and got me to where I am today.”

Almost 1 million UK young people are ‘Not in Employment, Education, or Training’. Labelled ‘NEETs’, we know them by the things they’re not doing: like finding work or attending school. They’re at risk of becoming the #NotGeneration.  

This story is just one voice in our #NotGeneration campaign, and shows what can happen when we support young people into work. Through specialist youth employment support – such as resilience training and job coaching – we’re helping young people move towards a brighter future.