Sam always knew he wanted to work in Care but was a little unsure where to start. In 2004, after a long period of unemployment, Sam was referred to Care Training by Jobcentre Plus. His adviser suggested he enrolled on a course called New Deal Care. This course focuses upon vocational skills needed to work in Care. While on the course individuals have the opportunity to study Literacy, Numeracy and employability skills. Learners are also supported in searching for work, applying for jobs and CV writing.

Sam says, “At first I found it hard going to Care Training because I didn’t know anyone. I also found the training quite hard as English is my second language. Once I plucked up the courage to tell someone I got a great deal of support, like one-to-one tutorials and extra lessons when I needed them. Staff members like Bruce and Rachael really gave me my confidence back.”

While with Care Training Sam achieved qualifications in Literacy Levels 1 & 2, TOPS, Moving & Handling, Food Hygiene, Health & Safety and First Aid. Sam also completed the New Deal Care course and with the support of Care Training found a placement in a Care Home on Sherwood Rise. Once on his placement Sam got real experience of working in Care and realised what a worthwhile job he was doing. Sam says, “I really enjoyed my placement. I was lucky that I had Care Training staff to help me find a Care Home that suited me. I was very happy in my role and found the work incredibly rewarding.”

Once his placement had finished Sam found a permanent, part-time position at a Care Home. In his spare time he began to volunteer at a nursery. Sam says, “I wanted a new challenge and I knew I had a lot of transferable skills from my Care training. Working with children is totally different but you need a lot of the same skills so I felt quite confident. I remembered all the skills I had learnt from the New Deal course and my advisers at Care Training.”

Sam went on to complete an NVQ Level 2 in Children’s Care Learning and Development, accredited by OCR. This qualification was funded by the EYDCP department of Nottingham City Council. Sam says, “I think I would like to concentrate on childcare now since I enjoy it so much. I’m hoping to complete my NVQ Level 3 shortly. If it hadn’t been for Care Training I would never have had the choice to change from Care to Childcare. The staff were always available to give me support and guidance. That has led to me finding sustained work in a vocational area I really enjoy”.

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