Meet our Senior Support Worker Darren, who recently completed his Leadership Apprenticeship! It wasn't always easy and at times Darren even considered stepping back, but he persevered and gained the qualification. We spoke to him about why he chose to take on study alongside his role.
What first motivated you to take on the apprenticeship?
Having discovered a love of learning in my adult life, I am always seeking to learn that has benefits of keeping me up to date with an ever evolving world of change and it is great stimulation for the mind.
What were your expectations at the beginning, and how did the reality compare?
I have always or predominately had face to face learning, and this is the best way for me to learn. This recent foray into the world of education was solely done through virtual online interactions which in reality to me was very difficult to adjust to.
You mentioned that you considered leaving the apprenticeship—what were the biggest challenges you faced balancing the apprenticeship with your frontline role?
As I have said previously one of the challenges was the virtual class room which for me put a barrier in the way that I needed to dig deep with, also the pressures of work and family were not conducive to my learning, and I felt out of control at times. In work we had pressures that arose from external factors and within my family life I have three adorable grandchildren whom I help with childcare, they were also a release when I would be around them as I revert to a child state (to the amusement of the kids and rolling eyes of my partner) and have fun which brings me such joy.
Was there a specific moment or event that made you reconsider and decide to continue?
The support from Changing Lives colleagues from my line manager, team colleagues and from the learning and development team who were all very supportive and caring.
Looking back, what kept you going when things felt overwhelming?
Sheer determination and a wanting to achieve my certificate, I have many certificates at home from the very first one as an adult learner who ventured back into the scary world of education at the tender age of 33.
What have you learned about yourself through completing the apprenticeship?
At one stage I had massive doubts about my ability to learn and had negative thoughts of ‘Have I reached an age where I am too old to learn’. Being able to recognise these negative thoughts I was able to look at and change my perspective and ways to work and started to enjoy the learning. Putting the theory into practice really excites me and this was a great motivator.
How has the apprenticeship influenced the way you work with people experiencing homelessness?
I have moved into a new role as Senior of the project I work in now and the learning has been so beneficial. I can help the people we support and staff within my team to a better standard. I have always had an empathetic stance for those I support due to my background, coming from a deprived area and having lived experience I ha -ve always taken my learning to impact positively on the people I/we support. It gives me a sense of accomplishment.
How does it feel to have completed the apprenticeship after nearly stepping away from it?
What a relief and my partner is overjoyed as she had to suffer and deal with my tantrums. I keep cheekily telling her my next certificate will be a degree and she remonstrates strongly. I have a saying, ‘never say never’!
What are you most proud of achieving during the programme?
Supporting an individual to remain in their home after the local authority took steps to take away their home. The learning I achieved was instrumental in this.
What would you say to someone in a similar position who is thinking about dropping out?
Speak up, reach out and ask for help/support. People are genuinely there to support you and they will.
If you could go back and give yourself advice at the start, what would it be?
Choose a time that is right for you to start and put time aside to complete the course work, it can be hard at times. Keep going!
