James

Tell me about the work you do?  

The purpose of what I do is to help individuals be empowered to live as independently as they can and access opportunities for work. I plan sessions that support learners to develop their skills for independent living, cooking, cleaning and we offer bespoke and practical approaches that give learners hands on experience. I also ensure that learning programmes include immersing them into the community to practice their skills.  

What does a typical day look like? 

 My day offers a varied timetable of learning offered which are tailored to each learners’ needs and might involve learning skills supporting them to leave college with a defined exit route of employment or supported living, it could be teaching English and maths to level 1 groups and supporting them to be exam ready. On certain days, I teach IT skills ranging from logging in to a computer, to finding information on the internet, producing websites and spreadsheets. All learning linking to the progress we want the learners to make.  

Part of a lecturing role is about heling learners with teamwork, leadership skills and skills needed to be able to flourish in society once they leave college.  

How have you developed both professionally and personally?  

I joined the college as a student on the public services course at Weston College, my ambition was to become a Police Officer. I started temping as a Support Worker at the college to earn some money whilst trying to join the police. Overtime, I realised the difference I could make in student’s lives and found myself being more and more committed to improving the outcomes of learners. I was offered a permanent role within the college team.  

Alongside my role, I studied for the level 3 support worker qualification and then achieved my Inclusive Practice degree. With this, I was able to be promoted to Vocational Assessor and now lecturer. Currently studying for my Level 5 teaching in education qualification.  

When I realised this was the career for me, my aim was to become a lecturer and within 4 years I had achieved this. Now I am looking at where to take my career next.  

What has been your proudest moment?  

During the pandemic I put through the highest number of individuals for the English and maths functional skills exam and had 100% pass with their predicted grades.  

The most rewarding part of my job is teaching learners and watching them achieve things they did not think possible. Especially when you have gaged at the beginning, where a learner is, you teach them over a period of time, and they go on to excel. It is fantastic to be part of their success.  

What would you say to someone thinking about working in this area?  

It is very rewarding working with learners and a great opportunity to develop yourself. It has been hard work juggling working and studying, but I have learnt so much and get a lot of support from those around me