JET

This is Robert Kanci. He currently lives in the West Denton area of Newcastle. He came to the UK from Czechoslovakia and decided to visit JET in November 2006. He had done some kitchen work in 2 different restaurants/bars, but was keen to learn more and get more permanent work.

The first thing which was evident when he came to see Julie at JET, was that he was keen to improve his English. We suggested he start on JET's free 'ESOL For Jobs' course. (ESOL means 'English for Speakers of Other Languages'). This meant that Robert would be able to practice speaking the language, while also learning about how to use different tools for job searching, how to complete a good application form, put a CV together, and prepare for job interviews.

This was quickly followed by JET's 'Work UK' course: this focuses on the work culture in Britain, and looks at contracts, sick and holiday pay, flexitime, employees' rights etc. Of both courses Robert had this to say,"the courses were excellent and very helpful. I learned so much and my English really improved. For people who are new to the UK, it was very useful to know about the work culture here."

Feeling more confident and skilled, Robert then spent a few months doing voluntary work with one of the British Heart Foundation shops. He really enjoyed this and spent a lot of time behind the counter and dealing with customers..and gained further skills as a result. The excellent news is that Robert has now secured a permanent, fulltime, paid job with a catering group who are part of Marks & Spencer. He works as a customer assistant and is delighted to be in secure work. Robert has really worked hard and JET are pleased to have helped him along the way. Well done Robert!