Not having any office or computer-based qualifications or experience, Holly thought the course would help provide these and open up another sector she could look for work in. Holly attended a taster session to help make an informed decision, and after completing the programme secured a job in a bank as a Customer Service Advisor. Read below to hear more of Holly’s experience!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I had six years of experience working in a variety of retail roles including footwear, fashion and make-up artist. I completed a Kickstart placement working in recruitment and after that finished, I was job seeking for about 3 months before starting the course.

How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach at Chapel Court Job Centre, Carl, told me about it. He had suggested I do some administration work experience at the Job Centre but I liked the sound of the Civil Service course better and what it had to offer. I also attended a taster session with Release Potential which meant I could make a well-informed choice.

Why did you decide to join?
I didn’t have any office or computer-based qualifications or experience, and thought the course would help provide this, and give me another sector I could look for work in. It was also an opportunity to do something different.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The course was accessible, there was a wide range of people on the course from different educational backgrounds. It wasn’t intimidating as the tutors were good at putting people at ease. It was my first experience of learning online, I had never used Zoom before, and found it was no different to being in a classroom.
It gave me the opportunity to refresh my skills, have a routine again and get back into education. It gave me some experience again of working to deadlines, brought back some confidence, and helped me with my CV and interview skills.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I can find it hard to motivate myself when working independently, but the tutors helped me with this.

What are you doing now?
I have secured a job as a Customer Service Advisor with Lloyds Bank Plc, and I’m excited to be starting work next week.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The training gave me a confidence boost. It took a little longer than I had hoped but I got a job. It also gave me the confidence to apply for university again. I had originally applied when I was eighteen but was rejected as I didn’t get enough UCAS points. I have now accepted a place at university starting this September.
The course helped me to realise I could do things I didn’t think I was capable of.

What are your plans for the future?
My contract with Lloyds Bank is for the next six months, which takes me to September and the start of my Art History degree at Liverpool John Moores University. I’m hoping to continue working at Lloyds while at university.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
You should do it. You get to learn things about yourself and what you’re capable of.