Meet our learners - Nicole

With Learn Devon’s help, Nicole developed new skills for her career working with vulnerable teenagers.

Nicole had been working in a primary school as a Teaching Assistant when she first heard about Learn Devon’s courses. She soon enrolled on the Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 Certificate course – specifically designed for those already working in the education sector but looking to progress in their careers.

‘I wanted to gain more knowledge and skills but also to get more experience under my belt. This course looked like a good way to build my CV,’ she said.

The course was delivered online and in-person, with the majority of classes online and a number of classes being delivered in Tavistock. Nicole found the hybrid approach and small class sizes beneficial.

‘Working together in Tavistock was very helpful especially after meeting online first,’ she said. ‘Another learner was quite nervous but it was good to talk online first. We also set up a WhatsApp group so that we could chat outside of the course time.’

The course provided a good overview of the education sector alongside specific insights about children with additional needs and provision in schools. Nicole found the tutor approachable and supportive. Throughout the course, several guest speakers shared their experiences in the education sector and about their career journeys.

Since completing the course, Nicole has changed job and now works for an organisation providing sheltered accommodation for vulnerable teenage girls. The content covered during the Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools course has been especially beneficial in her new role.

‘The course was helpful in equipping me to handle older children, too. We had spent time learning about child development and the importance of safeguarding. Children maybe of different ages but it is important to understand how to approach them. The course provided a great foundation.’