After a period of maternity leave, Grace had decided it was time for a career change. After seeing an advert for one of our courses in her local Job Centre, Grace got in touch with us to see how we could help her progress in the next steps to finding a new career! Thanks to the training and the work she put in, Grace was able to grow in confidence and apply for work within the Civil Service, even going on to secure a position within the DWP! Read on below to hear more from Grace and her story!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
Before I started the programme I had been on a period of extended maternity leave during which time I decided I wanted to consider a change in career.

How did you find out about the training?
I saw an advert for the Release Potential training when visiting the Job Centre. I spoke to my work coach about it to find out more details, but approached Release Potential directly to get involved.

Why did you decide to join?
I was keen to learn more about the Civil Service and the application process involved. The prospect of being a work coach was appealling and I also began to learn about other roles which I liked the sound of within the Civil Service.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The other learners I was working alongside were great. Really friendly and supportive to each other. The tutors also made the whole experience really pleasant and engaging. It was good to be able to do something which fitted in with home life commitments. I learnt loads about the Civil Service recruitment process: how to adapt my CV, how to create a strong behaviour or personal statement, and additional knowledge which helped me navigate through the process. I developed much more confidence which supported me with interviews.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
The CV rewriting was a challenge for me as I wanted to ensure I had a strong version in place. I also struggled initially with the interview techniques, partly due to confidence which grew as the course went on.

What are you doing now?
I’ve secured a role as an Executive Officer with DWP – Wolves.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The training really changed everything. It led me into a job which I hope will take me to retirement.

What are your plans for the future?
At the moment I just want to continue in my role and learn all aspects of it to become an expert. Maybe in 5+ years time I might consider my options from a progression perspective when my children are older, but would also be happy to continue as I am currently.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
I’d definitely recommend going for the training. Whatever help you need you’ll get. All of the support provided is adapted to suit the learners personal needs.