Having been unemployed for some time, Michael found out about the Release Potential course while at a job fair and felt he had nothing to lose by joining and completing another qualification. Michael had decided that even if he wasn’t successful with gaining employment within the Civil Service, having the Coaching & Mentoring qualification would still be a good thing for his CV.
However, Michael was successful with joining the Civil Service, going on from the course to gain a position as a Compliance Caseworker within the HMRC! Congratulations, Michael!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I was unemployed for a period of around a year before I started my course.

How did you find out about the training?
I found out about the training available whilst attedning a job fair in Walsall. Release Potential had a stand there where they were sharing information and promoting the different courses available.

Why did you decide to join?
On a personal level, I had recently completed another qualification and was in a good frame of mind for further learning. I was advised about Coaching & Mentoring courses available and job opportunities within the Civil Service. A friend of mine had also mentioned Civil Service roles and I hoped attending the course would help me and supplement my experience. I felt I had nothing to lose other than some time. Even if I wasn’t successful in Civil Service, the training would help me secure employment and I would also have the recognised Coaching & Mentoring Level 3 qualification.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
I enjoyed the training. My Tutor was really personable and also very helpful. The Masterclasses gave us more knowledge around what to expect from Civil Service applications which was particularly useful. I really liked the structure of the day which was missing before the course, but also enjoyed taking an opportunity to spend time with other learners in the same space as myself, searching for work. Attending the course gave me a much greater focus.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
Nothing major. I felt I managed well.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as a Compliance Caseworker with HMRC.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I think the training definitely helped me secure this current job. I feel I have my life back now and with a regular income which is also very beneficial.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m enjoying what I’m doing at the moment, learning something new with short term goals to move me forward.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
Go for it. Even if the content only tops up skills you already have, it can reinforce what’s already in place and is a great confidence booster. You’ve nothing to lose and everything to gain whilst participating and once the course has ended with your new knowledge.