Sheray had started a degree in Digital Media and Technology, but unfortunately had to stop before the course ended due to an injury. However, Sherays Work Coach told her about this IT based Kickstart programme, and after getting more information Sheray thought it would be a great opportunity to keep up skills while recovering. We wish Sheray the best of luck with her future paths, whether that involves going back to complete her degree or something else! Read on to see what else Sheray had to say!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
After leaving school, I took an Apprenticeship in Business Administration with Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley and Sandwell College. After completing, I carried on working at the hospital for about 3 years on a part-time basis. During this time, I also worked in hospitality as a waitress and in retail working for both a printing shop, and Tesco. In September 2020 I started a degree in Digital Media and Technology at Birmingham City University. Unfortunately, I had to stop in 2021 due to health reasons. I had been unemployed for about 2 months prior to starting the course.

How did you find out about the training?
I found out about the course from an email my Work Coach, Julie sent to my journal. She encouraged me to do it. I also got some further information from Sam at Release Potential and decided to take part.

Why did you decide to join?
I’d broken my knee and my leg and wasn’t able to do anything! I thought it would be good to help keep my skills up while I recovered at home and gain a new qualification at the same time. It suited my circumstances at the time.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The course was well structured, and the staff were helpful and supportive. It also showed me new ways to use software such as Canva. The job preparation and interview practice helped me too.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
The main obstacle I needed to overcome was to get some work experience in web design.

What are you doing now?
I’m employed on a Kickstart scheme as a Junior Web Designer with Hephzibah Digital Ltd, a digital consultancy company. I’ve just started recently and am in the training stage. I’m home based and as I’m still on crutches and can’t go anywhere yet it helps with my current situation! I will be working on front-end web design and helping with search engine optimisation.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I’ve always been nervous when it comes to interviews and the course has helped me with interview techniques and practice.

What are your plans for the future?
My Kickstart role lasts for six months, but I’m not sure about the future. I got half-way through my degree and I’m in two minds as to whether to return to University to complete my degree or try to carry on in a web design role afterwards.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
The course is worthwhile. You get to meet employers on the course and there are opportunities. I gained skills, increased my understanding of IT, and got another qualification.