Naimia found out about the training from their Work Coach after enquiring about any further learning opportunities that may be available. Thinking that it would be interesting and potentially open new avenues, Naimia requested to join the course! With the support recieved throughout the course, Naimia was able to improve their confidence and even go on to secure a role as an Admin Officer with the DWP! Congratulations, Naimia!
Read on below to hear the full story!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I had been at Arden University studying Psychology with Counselling on a part time basis before embarking on the course. In my previous job I’d worked as a support worker.

How did you find out about the training?
My work coach Rachel told me about the Civil Service course after I’d enquired about what learning was available for me to access.

Why did you decide to join?
After learning about what the course would involve, I thought it would be interesting and give me lots of new knowledge and learning benefits, so I requested being put forward.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The training was absolutely brilliant. My tutors – Rebecca and Gabi were so supportive all the way through the course. I was given so much help and encouragement despite feeling unwell part way through. They gave me alternative ways to communicate whilst like this. Learning about all of the different types of roles available in the Civil Service was excellent and really insightful, as well as the final piece of learning to support with coaching. During the course, any challenges with technology were also taken care of with lots of support from the Technical Support team.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I was a little nervous around appearing on screen for the coaching sessions but the support given was fantastic and made me feel at ease.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as an Admin Officer – Front facing role with the Job Centre at Birmingham South West on a part time basis, alongside my University studies.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The course has given me the skills in supporting the people I now engage with in my job and I feel lots more confident. What I learnt on the course has aligned really well with what I am covering as part of my on the job training. Confidence in speaking in general and also with each other in the team, has really benefited me and my colleagues. Having a Level 3 in Coaching & Mentoring is also a great confidence boost and opens up lots of other doors for roles not previously considered.

What are your plans for the future?
I have lots of opportunities ahead, ideally in the same environment which I’m loving. It also means once I have secured my degree I have further options available. The support I get in my current role is fantastic and it’s a wonderful working environment.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
Go for the training. You will have an amazing experience, get amazing support and meet some brilliant people along the way. The support you get continues way beyond the end of the course and you can access the Release Potential team via lots of different ways to make sure your needs are met.