Who Are Eric Knows?
Eric Knows are a Bishop Auckland based charity who champion accessibility and inclusion for disabled and neurodivergent people. Founded by Ella Bains (CEO) in 2018, they have helped over 100 individuals find employment through their Future Work Foundations programme and Accessible Work Placements.
What is the Future Work Foundations Programme? – in their own words
Future Work Foundations provides a unique opportunity for disabled and neurodivergent people of all ages from 16+ to earn AQA Unit Award Scheme certificates in an inclusive and adaptable environment.
If you join the programme, you will receive personalised support, while working to your own schedule, over an 8-week free to access training period (this can be extended if you feel like you need extra time). You will also be given the choice of which AQA certificates you want to work towards. You don’t even need any qualifications or previous experience to join, so you don’t have to stress about your GCSEs or higher education results when you apply. However, new students can only be accepted when spaces are available, so joining isn’t always guaranteed.
The Impact of Future Work Foundations
98% of previous participants left with at least one AQA certificate, and 94% left with an increase in confidence. We’re aware this programme all sounds very formal. However, we work in a patient and understanding environment with a casual dress code. Your needs will be heard, and you can make new friends among our welcoming staff. Speaking from my own experience, I cannot stress enough how wonderful my colleagues are.
What Past Students Have to Say
Don’t just take it from us. Past students were asked to answer a series of questions about their feelings before and after their time on the programme. Here are some of their comments after finishing:
“My time with Eric Knows so far has been amazing. I have really enjoyed doing the marketing, social media and video-making AQAs. I have really enjoyed getting to know everyone and having banter in the office.”
“Eric Knows has been one of the best experiences I have ever had, mixing educational knowledge and humour in the office, and I can’t wait to work with them further.”
“I loved the banter and community with Eric Knows.”
“The Eric Knows course on SEO was really helpful in understanding more of how the internet works, all in a friendly and accessible environment.”
“Eric Knows has been a great learning adventure. It has allowed me to try new things.”
How Do I Join the Future Work Foundations Programme?
You can apply to join the Future Work Foundations Programme by email (info[@]ericknows[.]org) or visit our support page. Feel free to ask any questions and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
We hope to hear from you, and we’d love to support you in any way we can. Thank you for reading.
