STRIVE

The cornerstone of LEAP’s training portfolio is the excellent STRIVE workshop, also known as ACE© (Attitude Creates Employability).  Originating from the East Harlem Employment Service in 1984, LEAP acquired the European licence for the model and adapted it to the UK context in 1999 .

This is an intensive demand-led programme, delivered in the form of a simulated work environment, which runs full-time, for 3 weeks, and teaches participants the essential skills that are necessary to attain and succeed in any job. It is aimed at those who find it difficult to secure employment by other means, often as a result of the multiple barriers they face, and transform them into work-ready individuals through job preparatory training and subsequent long-term job placement and follow-up support. 

Often attracted to LEAP by our outreach team, clients learn the technical and emotional skills needed for success in the workplace. Throughout the course people are encouraged to confront any areas of behaviour that need improving, be it a lack of confidence, aggressiveness or low self-esteem.  ACE© is accredited to Level 2, so the participants also get a recognised qualification, although just completing the three weeks usually creates a great sense of accomplishment.  After the course, clients will continue to receive one-to-one support until they have secured paid employment and we then continue to provide formal support, at three-monthly intervals (or as needed), for up to two years.

Under ACE©  we serve over 1000 people a year from our Kensal Green offices.  We also remove barriers to participation by fully reimbursing public travel expenses, providing appropriate business attire where necessary, and even paying for therapeutic counselling if needed.

For any enquiries about the ACE© programme please contact Lucie Dvorackova on 0208 962 1900 or lucie@leap.org.uk.