- What does Fairbridge do?
It works with 3,600 young people a year aged 13 to 25, who are not in education, employment or training. It specialises in working with those whom other organisations may find difficult to engage. Fairbridge develops projects to identify goals, develop skills and move on to education, training or employment.
- Where is it based?
Fairbridge works in inner city areas and has 15 centres in England, Scotland and Wales. It also has a 92ft replica schooner sailing ship in Oban, in Argyll, which takes young people on sailing courses.
- What roles are available?
Fairbridge employs 300 people. Outreach and development workers have initial contact with young people and work directly with them. Development tutors design, develop and deliver the courses. Operations and team managers oversee activities at centres. Finance, marketing, HR and communications are based at its head office in London.
- Is there a volunteering route in?
Fairbridge is passionate about giving young people a chance to give something back. Former clients and others can progress to full-time status via volunteering.
- Is training available?
In the first few months, staff undergo an induction with a group of young people. Fairbridge has three training and development managers. It also runs training programmes for other organisations.
- What is the package like?
A competitive salary, 28 days' holiday that increases to 32, pension contributions, parental leave, childcare vouchers, an independent employee assistance scheme and unpaid sabbaticals.
- What's in the pipeline?
It is expanding operations in Wales. It is also holding film and animation awards on 30 April at the Imax cinema in London, showing films made by Fairbridge clients. Guests include Secretary of State for Children Ed Balls and, hopefully, film star Kevin Spacey.
