Southway Academy graduates reflect on "great experience"

13/11/2025

Southway Academy Graduates

After completing a four-week course of training and work experience, we're excited to share the success of our graduates!

A handful of Southway tenants recently completed our first ever Southway Academy course, designed to give participants hands-on experience with the many roles and responsibilities behind the scenes in social housing.

Well done to Hannah, Rahima, Zoe, Alessia, Michelle and Muhammad!

Four of our brilliant graduates alongside Employment Support Officer, Andy Heywood

 

Southway Academy 1

Getting stuck in...

The Academy was created for Southway tenants not currently in employment or training.

Each of our particpants were able to get involved with several teams over the length of the course.

Amongst other things, our partipants got involved in:

  • Welcoming tenants on Reception.
  • Helping tenants with their requests in our Customer Hub.
  • Getting creative with our Communications Team.
  • Getting out and about in our communities.

Each participant seized the opportunity and made a great impression across the teams they got involved with.

 

Reflecting on the success of the course, Employment Support Officer Andy Heywood said:

"It was incredibly rewarding to experience how each of our Academy participants built new skills and confidence throughout their time at Southway...

 The Academy really was a whole team effort and a good example of how we can come together to support those in our communities."

We couldn't be prouder of all our participants and the way they adapted to each skillset and scenario we asked of them. 

We're glad they seem to feel the same way too! Have a look below to read some quotes about the course from the graduates themselves...

Southway Academy 2

“My participation in the Academy course will be very helpful in my search for employment. The course has helped me develop new skills, improve my confidence, and better understand what employers are looking for..."

- Muhammad
Southway Academy 3

"Southway Academy taught me the most helpful aspects of gaining experience are the development of soft skills like confidence and communication... I feel this course will be very beneficial for me in my career and also will boost my confidence level.”

- Rahima
Media (5)

"This course has encouraged me to apply to jobs within Southway, as I would like to be part of a business that cares for their tenants and always wants what's best for them. I feel like this course has opened my eyes on working in the office environment and seeing how each department collaborates..."

- Alessia

Need help with finding a job? Want to practice your interview skills or get 1 to 1 career support?

Find out more about how our Employment Support Team can help you: Click here