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Readiness to Work

The Grand Départs are just the start of the journey

Find out more about our Readiness to Work employability programme

Our Readiness to Work programme will help volunteers aged between 18-25 become job-ready, building the skills, experience, and confidence needed to move into employment.

With online workshops and mentoring combined with major event experience at the Grand Départs, this programme will help prepare young people for the world of work.

Applications are now closed. Thank you to everyone who has applied.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Readiness to Work programme?

Readiness to Work is an employability programme designed to help young volunteers build the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to move into employment. This programme will support you to:

  • Understand and develop transferrable skills gained through volunteering
  • Build confidence and develop workplace and sector knowledge through tailored mentoring and employability skills development
  • Prepare for job applications and future opportunities
What is employability skills training?

A series of online workshops and activities designed to help you build the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to move into employment. The training focuses on turning your volunteering experience into transferrable skills to use within future jobs and job applications.

Who is eligible for Readiness to Work?

To take part, you must be aged 18-25 and have applied to volunteer as a JOY Maker for the Grand Départ 2027.

Applications are closed on 1 October 2026 and those who completed an application will hear from our volunteering team in the coming months.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is a supportive relationship between you and an experienced professional to help you prepare for work and make informed decisions about your future. You will be supported to learn more about career sectors, understand workplace expectations, and reflect on your skills and development, and get guidance to help you plan your next steps.

How will this programme help me into work and future opportunities?

This programme is designed to help young people become job-ready by:

  • Developing key employability skills
  • Gaining practical experience through volunteering
  • Building confidence and navigating the job market
  • Strengthening your CV and interview performance
How will the programme be delivered?

All the workshops and mentoring will be delivered online. The only in-person activity related to this programme will be your volunteering role at the Grand Départ 2027.

When will the programme take place?

The programme will run from January 2027 to July 2027. Full details, including session times and scheduling, will be confirmed when you enrol.

Will I get help with CVs and interviews?

Yes. The programme includes support to:

  • Build or improve your CV
  • Prepare for interviews
  • Present your skills and experience confidently to employers
What if I am under 18 or over 25?

Readiness to Work is specifically designed for young people aged 18-25.

Young people aged 16-17 or over 25, are able to volunteer as a JOY Maker, but you will not be able to take part in this particular programme.

Can I still take part if I have additional needs or disabilities?

Yes. We welcome young people with additional needs or disabilities and will work with you to put the right support in place. We’ll discuss your needs before you start and make sure you have ongoing support throughout the programme.

How much time will I need to commit?

The programme will be delivered in the run up months to your volunteering, with a series of online sessions across the programme period. Full expectations will be shared at enrolment.

Is the programme free?

Yes, the Readiness to Work programme is free.

What technology do I need to take part?

You will need:

  • Access to a device (laptop, tablet, or smartphone)
  • A stable internet connection
How do I apply or get involved?

Applications are closed on 1 October 2026 and no further applications can be made.

Thank you to everyone who has applied and more information will be communicated in the coming months.