European Social Fund in England

Case studies: New College Consortium – A new beginning for Deborah

This time last year, 31 year old single mum of three, Deborah Jackson, was unemployed after having to give up full time work as a dental nurse due to a family tragedy. A year on, the future looks bright for Deborah, as she juggles family commitments, volunteering work and college classes while retraining to become a Teaching Assistant.

Deborah explains “I started by taking a free parenting class at New College that I found out about when their part time brochure came through my letter box. After the family incident I felt I needed some help with the way that I communicated with my children and as a single parent I felt quite alone so I thought the classes might help. The course was fantastic and it made a real difference to my relationship with my children.

“On the last week of my parenting course my tutor told me that as a single parent I might be eligible to get other courses free through a European Social Fund (ESF) project. After the family tragedy I knew I wanted to work with children and after looking into it we found that I could do a course in child protection and one to become a Teaching Assistant for free, so I started those in September and I’ve not looked back.

“I can’t say that juggling everything hasn’t been challenging at times, but it’s all worth it. As well as my college courses and family commitments, I also volunteer in my local primary school two mornings a week and have recently moved house, so it’s been tough, but my tutors at college have been absolutely fantastic, they’re so supportive and understanding!”

So what does the future hold for this brave mum who’s overcome obstacles and personal tragedy to fight for her family and their future? “I’d love to become a Teaching Assistant once I’ve finished my course” she says “but I’ve also got a bit of a distant dream to become a Midwife one day, so I guess you never know where life’s going to take you!”