DURING National Careers Week, leading adult education provider, ACL Essex is shining a light on different career paths. Here’s Harlow-based Martha’s story, she had a degree in media and communication studies, but wanted a rewarding career path that could help others.

“I completed a level 3 course in Principles of Leadership and Management as part of the Nightingale Care Bursary. I chose to join the health and social care sector for the compassion. My father was unwell and needed care, and in doing this, I saw how valuable working in care was and how other people would appreciate that support and help.

“I had previously worked in communications in a library and have done a degree in media and communication studies. I found helping others was more of a passion alongside caring for my father.

“I am currently a care manager/business development manager. I completed the Level 3 in principles of leadership and management with ACL. The course supported me in applying the learning to my role and my everyday duties, e.g., conflict management and understanding these behaviours and how to handle these in my role.

“The training I received from ACL improved my skills within my current role, to fit in and understand the leadership styles and apply them appropriately within my role and understanding the differing regulations. Now I have completed my Level 3, I would like to do the Level 5 in Health and Social Care.

“I enjoy helping others and supporting people and seeing individuals build independence, seeing their potential and seeing them try new life skills. I also enjoy seeing people develop, seeing them happy and fulfilled, even within their own challenges in their life. It is the best thing to do and is fulfilling and providing a service that changes someone’s life and helps to make positive change in people’s lives. I am very grateful for the Nightingale Bursary; it takes away the stress of looking for funds to complete the course. The funding enables people to study, makes life so much easier, and the tutors were very supportive and provided amazing guidance.”

The Nightingale Bursary is available for residents seeking a career in health and social care. To find out more or sign-up, visit https://aclessex.com/funded-training/nightingale-bursary/.