Thrive Programme returns to EKC Training Thanet Centre

The Thrive Programme is designed to help people return to work or pursue personal development. The previously piloted course is set to return to EKC Training Thanet Centre this autumn. 

The initiative has previously proven a huge success, boosting attendees’ confidence and empowering them to take a positive next step 

Last year, Adult Training Lecturer, Katie Simcevic, delivered the 12-week initiative for adults who have possibly been out of work for a long time, mainly due to health reasons, have long-term sickness, or have been let go from a long-term job. 

“Some may be seeking work, and others will just be hoping to make a change to their current routine and meet new people. It’s very much a confidence-building programme,” she said. 

“Part of the real value of this programme is getting a group together and giving them the opportunity to share ideas, feedback and their own experiences. They’re sharing different job roles that they see that will suit one another, but also just lots of tips, because they’ve all gone through very similar situations as well. 

“It’s nice for them to know that it’s not just them and they’re not alone, and they’ve actually built some really lovely friendships as well, so I think for that element, it’s brilliant.” 

One participant from the programme that ran last year, Teresa, described how the Thrive Programme has been life-changing for her. 

“I decided this course might be a good way for me to focus on getting out of the house because, for me, that was a big issue,” she said. 

“I had a lot of anxiety, so having the course just as a focus to get up and do something that day has been quite beneficial for me. 

“I think everyone on the course came in feeling quite nervous and quite anxious, but we’ve been very, very lucky because we’ve got a really nice group of people. It’s been about coming together with like-minded people, which has been really helpful.” 

Teresa added that the programme helped her rediscover her passion for working with people. 

When asked what advice she would give to anyone considering the Thrive Programme, Teresa said:  

“Don’t let anything hold you back from trying something.” 

“Some of us have really benefited from it and we’ve had lots of experience on how to reword our CVs and how to cope in interviews, so for some people, they’re further ahead on their journey of getting a job. For others of us, it’s been about gaining that confidence to go out and be with a different group of people. 

“I’m just really grateful for the opportunity for myself.” 

After a successful pilot programme, the course is planned to run again in the autumn of 2026. Contact our team for more information on this exciting course.