“I never wanted to go to college. I really didn’t like school, so I didn’t want to do anything like that again.”
For many young people, further education can feel out of reach – especially if school wasn’t a positive experience.
Low confidence, limited life skills, and uncertainty about future careers often create barriers that seem impossible to overcome.
But, thanks to a groundbreaking programme by Newbattle Abbey College (NAC) and Mayfield and Easthouses Youth 2000 Project (Y2K), young people in Midlothian are discovering new pathways into education, training, and employment – many for the first time.
Bridging the gap: From youth work to college
The 12-week programme, called Prep for Next Steps, funded by Midlothian Council and the Scottish Funding Council, is designed for young people aged 16-21 who have left school without a clear next step.
Many participants lacked confidence in their abilities, felt disconnected from education, and never imagined themselves in a college environment.
This initiative changed that by offering a flexible, supportive approach, allowing learners to develop practical life skills while earning SCQF-recognised qualifications that could open doors to higher education, training, and employment.
The two-stage process made the transition into learning accessible and non-intimidating:
✅ Stage 1 – Life Skills at Y2K: Participants gained confidence through practical workshops on budgeting, cooking, CV writing, and interview preparation. The youth work setting helped them develop trust and motivation.
✅ Stage 2 – A qualification at NAC: With ongoing support from Y2K, learners transitioned to NAC, working towards an Adult Achievement Award at an SCQF level suited to them (SCQF Levels 2-6).
By combining youth work support with structured education, the programme introduced college as a safe, achievable, and rewarding experience.
A learner’s journey in Prep for Next Steps
One participant described their unexpected transformation:
“When I started the Prep for Next Steps group, I was really surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I liked that it wasn’t about forcing us to do something we didn’t want to do – it was more about helping us figure out our own goals. I am so much more confident now and go to college at Newbattle Abbey. If I hadn’t had the chance to experience college first with Y2K and Denise (NAC’s lecturer in Adult Learning), I wouldn’t have applied for the course I’m on now.”
For this young person, earning a qualification wasn’t just about education – it was about building self-belief, resilience and motivation.
SCQF pathways: Real success stories
The programme’s impact is life-changing:
📌 75% of participants progressed to NAC’s Preparation for Learning and Work course
📌 Some have since advanced to SCQF Level 6 NC Social Sciences – a huge achievement for those previously disengaged from learning
📌 Participants report improved mental health, diet, better sleep, and stronger social connections
One learner summed it up perfectly:
“It wasn’t just about college though; it was about helping us to become happier and more positive too.”
Why Prep for Next Steps works: A collaborative approach
The success of the programme is rooted in the strong partnership between Y2K and NAC.
By breaking down barriers and prioritising relationship-based learning, they have created a new way to engage young people who never thought education was for them.
Denise McNulty, NAC lecturer in Adult Learning, explained: “Y2K nurtured a deep trust with the young people on the course through their knowledge of the community.
“This trust allowed them to offer tailored support, which has been invaluable – not just for me as a lecturer but, more importantly, for the success of each learner.”
Lynsey Ritchie, Project Manager at Y2K, added: “Working in partnership with Newbattle Abbey College has given young people a distinctive chance to enhance their skills, build confidence, and gain experience of learning in college.
“We have observed the positive effects on participants, who have not only achieved recognised awards but also developed vital life skills.
“Our holistic, person-centred approach has resulted in a sense of comfort and empowerment, enabling young people to recognise their own potential and identify their own personal goals.”
Rather than forcing learners into rigid systems, this person-centred approach has helped young people take control of their future and education.
Expanding opportunities: What’s next?
Due to Prep for Next Step’s success, NAC and Y2K are scaling up their efforts to support even more young people. The next phase will offer:
🚀 Three 12-week programmes per year, giving more learners access to qualifications that are on the SCQF
🎓 Opportunities for progression into further education, apprenticeships, and employment
💡 A flexible, supportive approach to suit individual learner needs
The goal? To transform how disengaged young people see education, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to meaningful qualifications and career opportunities.
For young people who once felt lost, this programme proves that with the right support, education is for everyone.
Useful links
For more information about NAC’s Adult Achievement Awards, visit their website.
For more information about Y2K, visit their website.
