Real-world ready

Skills that open doors

From barista certification to English classes and real work placements — a complete pathway to fair employment.

The Mission

Dignified
Futures

Real Hope Leeds believes that meaningful work is one of the most powerful routes to safety, dignity, and belonging. Our training programme was designed from the ground up with that belief at its centre.

Each stage is delivered by a specialist who cares deeply about the outcome. Personal & focused.

Precision in every pour ☕

Stage 1

English

Stage 2

Barista

Stage 3

Placement

STEPS

Our Process

The three stages
to employment

Stage 1

ESOL with Paula Moore

English for Speakers of Other Languages classes tailored to workplace communication, helping participants build the confidence to thrive in professional settings.

Conversational and written English
Workplace vocabulary and etiquette
Flexible scheduling around personal commitments
Small group sessions for personalised support

Stage 2

Barista Training with Raymond Kwan

Industry-recognised barista certification delivered by an experienced specialty coffee professional, equipping participants with skills that are genuinely in demand across Leeds.

Espresso extraction and milk technique
SCA-aligned barista fundamentals
Customer service and café workflow
Nationally recognised certification

Stage 3

Placement with Sangeetha at Virgin Money & 200 Degrees

Paid and supported placements with Leeds employers who are committed to fair hiring. Participants gain the CV evidence that unlocks permanent employment.

Structured 8-week placement with a dedicated mentor
Regular check-ins with Real Hope support staff
Partner employers: Virgin Money and 200 Degrees Coffee
Job-readiness coaching throughout

Who can apply

The programme is open to refugees and asylum seekers living in Leeds who are ready to take the next step towards employment.

Refugee or asylum seeker currently living in Leeds
Motivated to gain employment in hospitality or customer service
Able to commit to the full three-stage programme
No prior English or coffee experience required

Before Real Hope, I had skills but no way to show them. The programme gave me a certificate, a reference, and — most importantly — the confidence to belong.
Senait
Programme Graduate, 2024

Frequently asked questions

Is the programme free?: Yes. The full training programme — including ESOL classes, barista certification, and work placement — is completely free to participants.
How long does the programme take?: The programme runs over approximately 16 weeks: four weeks of ESOL, four weeks of barista training, and an eight-week supported placement.
What level of English do I need?: No prior English is required to apply. Our ESOL classes are designed for beginners and are a core part of the programme, not a prerequisite.
Is this only for people in Leeds?: Currently, yes. Our placements and classes are based in Leeds, so participants should be able to travel to the city centre.
What happens after my placement ends?: We work with our employer partners to support participants into permanent roles where possible, and provide ongoing job-search coaching for those still seeking employment.

Ready to start your journey?

Applications are open. Get in touch and one of the team will respond within two working days.

Apply Now