A young participant from Burnley FC in the Community’s Hatch programme is celebrating a major milestone after securing employment with KFC Blackburn following a successful four-week work experience placement.
Funded by the KFC Youth Foundation, the placement offered Michael-Terry valuable workplace experience. It helped him build confidence and take positive steps towards employment.
Throughout his placement, Michael-Terry demonstrated dedication, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. His hard work earned him a permanent role at KFC Blackburn.
Turning Opportunity Into Success
At Burnley FC in the Community, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their potential. Through the Hatch programme, we support young people to overcome barriers to employment by building confidence, developing workplace skills and creating meaningful opportunities with local employers.
Before beginning his placement, Michael-Terry took part in employability sessions delivered through the programme. These sessions helped him develop his understanding of teamwork, communication, workplace expectations and employee rights, giving him the tools and confidence to succeed.
His hard work and determination quickly shone through, helping him make a positive impression from day one.
Claire Burnley, Burnley FC in the Community, said:
“Michael-Terry engaged well in employability sessions, where he prepared for his work placement by developing his understanding of teamwork, employee rights and workplace scenarios.
During his placement, he quickly excelled in his training and progressed straight into working in the restaurant.
The feedback from his placement was extremely positive. Staff commented that Michael-Terry settled into the team very well, worked hard, showed a positive attitude and was eager to learn new skills every day.
We are incredibly proud of Michael-Terry for all that he has achieved, particularly for successfully securing employment with KFC. His commitment, enthusiasm and hard work throughout his placement have been rewarded, and we wish him every success in his new role.”
Building Confidence For The Future
Reflecting on his experience, Michael-Terry spoke about the impact the programme has had on his confidence and personal development.
Michael-Terry said:
“I love it and would recommend it to anyone thinking of doing it.
I have learnt lots from the programme, including communication skills, meeting new people and how to get on with people better.
I would also like to thank my Work Coach, Lorraine, for all her support throughout the programme and helping me get to where I am today.”
His journey highlights how the right support, encouragement and opportunities can help young people take positive steps towards a brighter future.
Working Together To Create Opportunities
Michael-Terry’s achievements have been recognised by his manager at KFC Blackburn. She praised his development and positive impact on the team.
Rachel, Michael-Terry’s Manager at KFC Blackburn, said:
“The Hatch programme went really well. MT, as we call Michael, picked everything up quite quickly and fitted straight into the team.
We are so pleased with all his progress and the positive attitude he brings to work every day.
He has been a great addition to the restaurant, and we look forward to seeing him continue to develop in his role.”
Michael-Terry’s achievement is a fantastic example of what can be accomplished when young people are given the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Through the continued support of the KFC Youth Foundation, alongside partnerships with local employers and DWP colleagues, the Hatch programme is helping young people across our communities gain valuable experience, build confidence and move closer to sustainable employment.
For Michael-Terry, that support turned an opportunity into employment. Everyone at Burnley FC in the Community is incredibly proud of his hard work and success.
Congratulations, Michael-Terry. We wish you every success in your new role and look forward to seeing what you achieve next.