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Information, Advice and Guidance
Why Information, Advice and Guidance Matters
At FIRST, we believe the right information, advice and guidance (IAG) can change lives. Everyone deserves the chance to unlock their potential, explore opportunities and move forward with confidence.
Our IAG helps learners plan their next steps in education, staff grow their skills, and entrepreneurs find the courage to launch new ventures. It is about more than signposting. It is about opening doors, building belief and sparking possibility.
We are committed to equity and equality. Whatever someone’s background, ability or circumstance, we make sure they feel seen, supported and empowered to succeed.
How We Work
We use a clear step by step Engagement Process to make sure everyone gets the right support at the right time in the way that matters most.
Stage 1
FIRST interaction
Via an event, word of mouth or social media communication
Stage 2
Expression of interest recieved
The team gains contact information and why the learner is interested in the course
Stage 3
Enrolment forms sent
An email is sent with enrolment forms and course dates for those wishing to take part.
STAGE 4
Access to resources
Resources are shared along with clear instructions on how to access the workbook (for online delivery) or how to find the building (for in-person sessions).
STAGE 5
Course participation
The course takes place either online or face to face, giving participants the chance to develop their skills in a supportive environment.
STAGE 6
Celebration pack received
A party pack arrives in the post, ready to be enjoyed during the final session as part of celebrating achievements.
STAGE 7
Certificate awarded
On successful completion, a course certificate is posted out to mark the learner’s progress.
STAGE 8
Next steps referral
Where appropriate, referrals are made for further training, support, or opportunities that align with individual goals.
STAGE 9
3-month check-in
A wellbeing and progress call or email is carried out three months after completion to see how things are going.
STAGE 10
6-month check-in
At six months, another wellbeing and progress review takes place, offering continued guidance and signposting where needed.
What we mean by Information
At FIRST, information is factual, impartial and accessible content that helps learners understand their options. This includes details such as programme overviews, eligibility criteria, or funding opportunities.
For example, a learner seeking to understand which training route to take might receive a breakdown of course content, time commitments, or links to external skills support. Information helps learners make decisions from a position of clarity.
What we mean by Advice
Advice involves providing tailored suggestions based on a learner’s personal circumstances, goals and needs. It is informed by listening, understanding and responding to the learner's situation.
For instance, a learner interested in starting a business but unsure where to begin might be advised to attend a local business workshop or connect with a relevant community support service. Advice is responsive and contextualised.
What we mean by Guidance
Guidance offers deeper, personalised support that enables learners to reflect, identify goals, and plan for their next steps. It may involve overcoming barriers, understanding learning pathways, or working collaboratively to build courage and direction.
For example, a neurodivergent learner might work with staff to co-develop visual rather than written materials, as part of a progression plan into self-employment. Guidance is holistic, developmental and long-term in focus.
OUTCOMES FOR LEARNERS
Why learners join FIRST and value our IAG:
69% - “It was recommended to me”
60% - “I was interested in starting a business”
57% - “I believed the course could help me get where I wanted to be with work or starting a business”
50% - “I wanted to learn new skills”
The impact of our IAG
- 99% of learners were satisfied with their course in 24-25
- The quality of teaching and learning was rated at 98% in 24-25
- 98% of learners felt they were well supported into the next steps of their journey
- 96% of learners indicated that they were satisfied with the pre and post course IAG at FIRST
As a result of our effective IAG, learners progress into:
- 41% Self employment
- 10% Part time work
- 36% Further education or training
- 3% Full time work
- 10% did not say
IAG's Impact on FIRST
FIRST's Stakeholder board
Our Stakeholder Board is at the heart of how we work. It brings together voices from across our community – people with lived experience, partners, and subject-matter experts – to guide our company direction and keeping us on track with our mission.
They help us see challenges from different perspectives, ask the questions that matter, and keep us focused on what’s most important to the people we serve. By listening, sharing ideas, and challenging us when needed, our board ensures that the IAG is rooted in real experiences, not just policies on paper.
The result? Decisions and recommendations that are more balanced, inclusive, and meaningful.
The FIRST team
At FIRST, IAG is how we build trust, unlock potential and support people to take courageous, informed steps towards their goals.
It matters to our team because it allows us to meet each learner as an individual. We listen first, understand their circumstances, and offer clear, practical guidance that helps them move forward - whether that’s into learning, work, or self-employment.
We believe everyone deserves access to the information and support they need to make choices that work for them. That’s why IAG is embedded in everything we do - it’s central to how we deliver inclusive, empowering support that creates real change.
HEAR WHAT OUR PARTNERS HAVE TO SAY
We work closely with referral partners and employers to ensure our IAG offer is consistent, impartial and impactful.
Here is a recent quote from our Partners at Newcastle College:
"We regard the collaboration with FIRST as a significant enhancement to our educational offering and a testament to the value of integrating industry-led initiatives into higher education."
Company goals for 2025-2026
Key Performance Indicators:
- We want every learner at FIRST to feel supported from start to finish – our goal is to make sure 100% of learners feel that support throughout their journey.
- We're aiming for 100% of learners to say the information, advice and guidance they received helped them make the most of their time with us.
- We're preparing for our next Ofsted inspection with a clear goal: to meet or exceed a strong standard across everything we do.
- And we’re proud to be setting a high bar for learner satisfaction – our target for 2025/26 is to keep satisfaction levels at 99% or above.
Want to find out what's next?
WANT TO KNOW MORE? TAKE A LOOK AT OUR LATEST NEWS: