After working in care for several years, Francine took a career break to raise her three children. “The hours in care were challenging to manage with three children and a husband working full-time,” she explained. This led her to extend her career break to focus on her family.

As her children grew, Francine began thinking about returning to work. “I started to feel like I was ‘just being a mum’ and had lost confidence in my abilities beyond caring for children and organising a family,” she shared. Realising that a school-based role could fit her family’s schedule, she started looking for ways to gain relevant qualifications.

Francine discovered Realise through a Facebook advert. “I thought this would be a perfect opportunity,” she said. “The hours of the course worked alongside childcare, and it gave me a chance to gain the skills I needed.” After speaking with Ian, one of Realise’s Business Development Managers, Francine felt encouraged to take the next step. “Ian was so friendly and approachable – I was looking forward to the challenge.”

Despite her excitement, Francine admitted she was nervous on her first day. “I felt very nervous and thought I would be a big flop as I had lost confidence in my capabilities.” However, she was quickly reassured by the warm and welcoming atmosphere. “Beth (Enrolment Officer), Ian (Business Development Manager), and Natalie (Tutor) made sure the environment was friendly and supportive. It didn’t take long for the learners to start chatting and sharing their experiences, and I’ve made some lifelong friends through the course.”

Francine particularly enjoyed the group activities and discussions during the course. “Sharing our life experiences increased each learner’s knowledge,” she noted. As the course progressed, Francine gained clarity about her career path. “I realised that being a teaching assistant wouldn’t suit me long term, but the course opened my eyes to other possibilities. It helped me see how I could use my skills in an admin or sales role instead.”

Completing the course had a profound impact on Francine. “The training gave me confidence and helped me overcome the social anxieties I had developed from being at home with the children,” she said. With support from Adrian Donnelly, a Realise tutor, Francine updated her CV to showcase her strengths. “Alan helped me create a CV that sold my best attributes, and I started getting job interviews.”

Her determination didn’t go unnoticed. “On my second-to-last course, Ian mentioned an enrolment job at Realise and encouraged me to apply,” Francine shared. She took his advice, submitted her CV, and was thrilled to secure the role.

Francine is now a passionate advocate for Realise. “Completing these courses and going on to work for Realise has changed my life for the better,” she said. Her message to anyone considering a course is clear: “Grab the opportunity! The support and training you’ll receive can truly transform your life.”

Francine’s journey shows that tailored training can help individuals regain confidence and unlock new opportunities. Not only did she acquire new skills, but she also discovered her potential and a fulfilling career at Realise.