Finding a passion: working in education
Throughout her career, Lizzy has worked in many different sectors, from warehousing to hospitality and care, but it was through a Bespoke Employer Led Programme (BELP) at Stockton Riverside College that she found her passion for helping children and young adults.
Lizzy explained: “I was never interested in going to college as a school leaver – I needed to go straight into paid work to financially support my family. I made the decision to look at new opportunities this year, and a friend mentioned she’d seen a Supporting Teaching and Learning BELP at the college.”
The leap of faith paid off for Lizzy who says a career in learning support is a vocation she didn’t know she needed. With support from tutors and in-depth course content, she’s been able to successfully navigate the world of education. She said: “I can see myself doing this for the rest of my working life now. Following completion of the BELP I went straight into a paid role, armed with the skills employers were looking for and the confidence to succeed.”
Lizzy says that she truly believes it is never too late to return to education. She said: “You never know what you might find out about yourself and the new information you can learn. Returning to education has been the best decision I could have made, and if you’re looking for a new chapter in life this is a great way to make it happen.”
In the future, Lizzy hopes to continue learning and upskilling within the educational sector, helping many students in the years to come. This course enabled Lizzy to achieve a Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges, alongside teaching and learning job skills, equality and diversity training and a work placement at Stockton Riverside College. She currently works for an agency, Niche Education, predominantly based at Beaumont Hill in Darlington.
There’s a huge range of adult courses at Stockton Riverside College, including BELPs like Lizzy’s. Take the next step in your career with us and find out more about upcoming courses via: employability@stockton.ac.uk
