Before joining the Coaching and Mentoring programme here at Release Potential, Charlotte had already looked into coaching courses via Coventry College, but ultimately had decided it wasn’t the right time to explore that path. But after finding out about the programme from Andrew, a member of the team, and her Work Coach, Charlotte knew the time had come and joined the course! Charlotte found that the training and classroom environemnt were enjoyable, causing her to engage even more as the course went on, and now wants to explore Further Education options around Coaching & Mentoring! Since completing the training with Release Potential, Charlotte has gone on to gain employment as an Employability Coach at Coventry College, using the knowledge she has gained to help others!
Read the full story from Charlotte below!
What were you doing before you started the programme?
I was previously in a Business Development Executive role for around 3 years and then became unemployed before joining the course.
How did you find out about the training?
I was notified of the Civil Service training via my Work Coach. I was going to enrol on the Civil Service course but following some engagement with Andrew from Release Potential, I was advised of the Coaching & Mentoring Level 3 course which I felt was more suitable and also available to me. This sounded much more like what I was looking for.
Why did you decide to join?
I had already known I wanted to upskill and reskill as I knew I didn’t want to be in Business Development anymore. I had previously explored coaching courses via Coventry College, but the time wasn’t right and I felt it would be a longer term commitment. After exploring jobs which were more entry level roles, I hoped the course would prepare me, and future opportunities would be available where I could develop on the job. This seemed better suited for my needs.
What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The training and the teaching methods were fantastic. My tutors really stood out. The classroom involvement was really enjoyable and the engagement increased as the course went on. Support amongst the learners was really good. It was really nice having a close knit community where openness was shared around having some challenges if we fell behind a little bit. Separate 1-1s were booked to help get back on track.
Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
A few personal barriers around not working and wondering if I could be successful in securing a job.
What are you doing now?
I work as an Employability Coach with Coventry College.
What impact has the training had on your life?
My entire career focus and path has been changed. I now want to explore Further Education in upskilling in particular around Coaching & Mentoring which I am hoping to go further in.
What are your plans for the future?
I aim to learn as much as possible about my role, then progress and development myself as much as possible.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
Have a chat with Release Potential to get a full understanding of what’s available and how you will get some learning benefits and new skills Also consider how this can work well for you along with your life at home. It opens up so many avenues of work. The course will equip you with the tools to consider lots of things, for example, start your own businesses, pursue a role as an Employability Coach, Wrap Around Support, Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach amongst many others.