Future Jobs Fund Interviews

Novas Scarman Group interviews future job funds employees on their journey through the scheme

My Experience at Novas Scarman

So here I am, 5 months later. I feel like I’ve come a long way. I had never before worked in an office environment- but now it feels like second nature to me. One of the key improvements I have found is my organisation. At first I found it difficult to keep track of all the new material and projects, but now I have a recorded database for each project, with contact names, email adresses, phone numbers, and a running record. Also, I have ingrained the habit of recording all events and meetings in a shared calendar, not only to remind myself, but to co-ordinate with my line manager Anna, when to do what. This is merely one development I have achieved.

Unexpectly, I have found the office to have a relaxed atmosphere where everyone gets along, has a few laughs, grabs a few cups of coffe a day,and help is always there when needed. As there is currently only seven of us at the Nottingham office, teamwork is essential to success and progress. It is even more important that we get along- and fortunately the workforce has within it some of the friendliest employee’s I have ever met. We work very professionally- we dress smart, have our own business cards to distribute, treat confidentiality and data protection with utmost importance (something unfamilliar in my previous employers), and we work hard. In a few days I felt I was part of the team, and already I could picture myself going far in this spontaneous employment.

Although I would label myself as a very social person, I have found talking with almost anyone to be easy and comfortable. Simply because I have found the community sector attracts often the kindest and friendliest people to communicate with. People think and act differently in the private sector, where everything seems geared towards money & financial targets. It has been a real pleasure meeting such a diverse bunch of people through Novas Scarman, particularly those in the ‘Re.think’ and ‘Connecting Communities project’, whom I have helped and enjoy company with along the way.

Overall, with Novas Scarman, I feel like I have unlocked my greater potential- I am still the same person, but I’ve evolved into a pro-active, confident, organised and enthusiastic individual that I have never witnessed before.



Steven Fretter, 23

Journeys End

I am coming to an end of my contract with Novas, I have enjoyed my time and experiences here, I have learned and developed a lot within the six months such as negotiating, communicating effectively, being assertive, interview skills and techniques, and thus becoming a more confident and determined person.
I feel that the relationship between myself and the staff has only grown and developed into mutual respect and admiration for the staff and what they do and the energy they bring to the company.

I could not have asked for a friendlier and welcoming team around me, again I am thankful for such a wonderful experience and to be received the way I have. I am confident that I can face any challenges that lay ahead thanks to the improved foundations I have built and modified while at Novas with the aid of my immediate and extended team members.

Jerome Prince, 24