Andrew joined our Returneeship course as he thought it would be a new experience and a positive way to spend time while searching for employment. Andrew has said that the time on the course helped build his confidence and skills, both beneficial in gaining employment at his new job! Read his story below as we wish Andrew the best of luck with his new position!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
After school, I completed a L3 BTEC Diploma in Software and Games Development. I went on to complete two Apprenticeships, the first with the Learn Play Foundation, and the second in Business and Administration with the NHS where I worked as a Data Entry and Call Handler. After completing this I stayed on and worked on bank for a while. I then worked as an Administrator with H Samuels, a finance company in Birmingham. I was there for a year and a half but the scheme I had been managing came to an end. I was unemployed before I joined the course with Release Potential.

How did you find out about the training?
I found out about the course from my Work Coach, Nyaanir, at West Bromwich Jobcentre. I didn’t have a customer service qualification and thought taking it would help improve my employment prospects.

Why did you decide to join?
I was curious about the course, thought it would be a new experience and give me something positive to do with my time.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
During the first two days, there were various activities we completed as a group – I did video editing. I had done this a while ago in college, so it was good to refresh my knowledge, use some new software and improve my skills in this area. In addition to being educational, the L1 Customer Service qualification helped to build my confidence and team building skills.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
Not really, my main focus was to find work.

What are you doing now?
I’m starting a job as a Customer Service Adviser with the Automobile Association. After completing the course with Release Potential, I gained a place on a L2 Customer Service course run by Sandwell College on behalf of the AA. I had to pass a Maths and English test first. After completing the course on Zoom there was an interview day during which we observed calls with call operators and another team who were arranging the correct vehicles for despatch to incidents. During my interview I had to respond to given scenarios and I got the job!

What impact has the training had on your life?
Doing the L1 Customer Service with Release Potential was a step up for me, and a positive addition to my CV. I think it was attractive to employers as it helped me to get interviews and the foundation I needed to progress to the L2 course with the AA.

What are your plans for the future?
I’ve got this job now, and I’d like to settle into it and do well. I’m hoping it will become a long-lasting position for me.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
Go and experience it, you’ll gain qualifications that will help you progress, I did! It also shows to others that you’re willing to do something productive with your time while you’re searching for work.