Student Case Studies

Education Sector-Based Work Academy Programme - Mima

Mima joined the Education Sector-Based Work Academy Programme in 2023, after the Job Centre shared the course details. From there she has become a Learning Support Assistant at East Surrey College.

When did you study at ESC and why did you choose us?
I was enrolled by Job Centre Plus as part of Universal Credit Commitment requirement whilst recovering from Knee replacement surgery.

This presented me with a fantastic opportunity for me to train on campus with my future employer through the LSA SWAP Course.

What did you enjoy about the course/s? Any particular modules or topics?

I thoroughly enjoyed the whole course and the way it was delivered by Lucille Francis -Hume

How did you find the teaching/support on the course/s?
The course was easy to understand, it was also very accessible and relatable content which was delivered in an interesting and engaging format and was fun and inclusive despite the varied Learners taking part.

How did the course prepare you for your job/uni? What specific skills did you learn that have helped you?

It managed expectations of the job role well and ensured that I was prepared for the interview process and the job itself. It helped me to start and feel confident in the knowledge that I could meet what was expected of me and that I more importantly understood the needs of the learners I would be assisting and the expectations and Ethos of the college itself.

What were your next steps after College? Jobs/uni course/employment etc.

As a result of completing the LSA SWAP course, I was interviewed for the LSA Post at East Surrey College and I was offered a job from there as part of the East Surrey College team.

What current work or study are you doing? What do you enjoy most about it?

I am now working as an LSA in the SEN part of the college mainly supporting Personal Progress Learners but do work with other groups as needed.

It is challenging at times adapting to the changing needs of different Learners as each day is very different dependent on the individuals and the dynamics of the various groups, but I do enjoy the rewards of seeing the improvements in behaviours and also building trust and confidence in each individual as I support them.

What are your future plans?

To continue to learn and become a valued and respected member of the team and hope to progress my career within the College/Department.

Do you have any advice you would give to current or future students at ESC?

If you have a positive mindset and determination to complete whatever course, you choose and commit to whatever you do, that's half the work done. Boring as it sounds, never quit is the most important advice I’d give. The feeling of Success is amazing and far out ways the sad feeling of failure.

Find out more about SWAPs (Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes) here.