Careers Navigator levels up skills support

A new Tees Valley education initiative is aiming to bridge skills gaps and better prepare young people for the world of work.

Careers Navigator, launched in Middlesbrough, is a gamified learning programme designed to build confidence, develop employability skills and support lifelong learning across a wide age range.

Created by Dr Kat Carruthers and delivered by NetWORK NotWORK CIC, the programme was developed with a team with lived experience of autism, ADHD and physical disabilities, ensuring it is inclusive for all learners.

The platform offers tailored learning pathways for different age groups, from children to adults in employment, with modules covering areas such as leadership, sustainability, communication and innovation.

Gamified elements, including points, badges and leaderboards, are designed to boost engagement, while learners can build portfolios to support job applications or further education.

Kat said: “We’re proud that we are able to provide advice and support for families with children who are neurodivergent, have sensory processing differences, or other SEND.

“Our Ignition Crew (mentors) take the time to understand the unique needs of each child in their group, and create a calm, kind and inclusive space where children with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and different learning needs can feel confident, supported, and truly thrive.

“Skills can only begin to develop in a space that feels safe, supportive, and built on a foundation of asking questions and acceptance of making mistakes.”

Content has been co-created with young people and informed by employers, with real-world challenges helping learners understand industry needs and local opportunities.

The programme was unveiled at a launch event held at AV Dawson The Staiths in Middlesbrough, attended by a range of education providers and local businesses.

Andrea Naylor, business solutions manager at the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), gave a keynote speech at the event. 

She added: “Access to high-quality careers advice is a fundamental part of ensuring everyone can realise their potential.

“At TVCA, we are committed to making sure people of all ages and backgrounds can access the very best guidance, insight, and opportunities.

“By working closely with employers, educators and partners across the region, we are helping to equip individuals with the skills, confidence and knowledge they need to prepare for work and to succeed.”

Middlesbrough mayor Chris Cooke, who also attended the event, added: “It was a privilege to attend the VIP launch event of the Careers Navigator programme.

“I am passionate about ensuring our children and young people are encouraged, supported and empowered to succeed despite any barriers they may face, so to learn more about the concept and the details of a programme that will support all our young people – whatever their background or ability – was fantastic.

“It very much aligns with the Council’s 10 by 10 pilot project which we are currently trialling in five schools across Middlesbrough. 

“By secondary school, young people are already on a chosen path, however, their experience of the variety of potential careers may be limited. 

“We want to ensure that we can support our young people to succeed – and ultimately local employers can plug skills gaps and retain talent in the region – and the Careers Navigator programme aligns with our vision for the future.”

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