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Written by Michael Glover
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Tuesday, 26 May 2009 09:30 |
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Sharon enrolled on one of the WEAs first Learning to Earning programmes held at the Vine Centre on Belfasts Crumlin Road. Before starting the programme Sharon had no qualifications, to date she has completed two of the three qualifications offered as part of the Learning to Earning programme.
Id been through some tough times in my life and having been made redundant in October 2007, I felt it was time to make some changes. I knew that as part of the Learning to Earning programme Id get the chance to fill in application forms and as I hadnt done anything like this in 20 odd years, I decided to sign up.
I would be the first to admit that I lack confidence and feel that I have little to offer. It was good that as part of the personal development course. I was given an opportunity to think about the type of person I am and learn about confidence and how to develop it. Thanks to the programme I feel that my confidence has definitely been built up. I feel more relaxed about going for interviews and I have gained general learning skills. Louise (WEA tutor) was great. She made me and everyone in the group feel at ease and there was no pressure on us at any stage of the course. Before starting the programme I had no qualifications, now I have 2!
Being a mother to four children, ranging in age from 14 -21, and coaching the local under-14 football team, I recognised that most of my experience and interest related to looking after and caring for children. Through support that I was given by Kelly (WEA Development Officer) and Louise, I realised that starting my own child caring business would be a perfect career path for me. As part of the Employment Skills course I was able to create an action plan, research the qualifications needed, and find out about agencies that could provide assistance. I didnt waste any time and immediately enrolled on an NVQ in Child Care through Social Services and having completed this I am now registered with the NI Child Minding Association (NICMA). To help with the business side of things, I have completed the Go for It programme and have just created my first business plan for Auntie Sharons. I am looking forward to starting the IT element of the Learning to Earning programme and gaining new skills in this area. Kelly has explained that there will be a Desktop Publishing module that will enable me to create flyers and leaflets to help promote my new business.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 10 March 2010 17:49 |
