What is your career background?

I studied English Language at university and trained as a careers adviser alongside working in the careers team at a local college. After that, I spent time developing my skills in higher education. I worked at the University of Reading in a number of roles including executive support and global recruitment/ admissions.

During my time working at the University of Reading, I took the opportunity to work as careers support and work ready tutor at Launchpad 135. After about a year, I applied for the 135 team leader role.

What brought you to Launchpad?

Whilst working at the University of Reading, I organised some fundraising for Launchpad. I wanted to get a bit more involved and started my Launchpad journey as careers support and work ready tutor at Launchpad 135.

I offered three hours of one-to-one careers guidance appointments and later developed a group work ready session which we nicknamed ‘Job Shop’. Whilst I was a tutor, I also supported with one-to-one progression meetings with the clients. I was really excited when the opportunity to work at Launchpad 135 arose and I could submit an application to be an employee.

What does your role entail here? 

I am team leader of the Launchpad 135 and oversee the day-to-day running of the centre.

My role requires a lot of organisation and networking. A big part of my role is developing the activity timetable and engaging with other services to develop referral links. I also facilitate one-to-one work ready and progression meetings with our clients.

At the centre we cover activities in three main areas. The first is our work ready sessions where wesupport our clients to become more self-aware, up-skill in areas that can support them into work, and help them develop employability skills they can use for life (how to submit an application or update their CV for example).

The second area, life skills, covers things like digital skills, cookery, personal money management and laundry, for example.

And the third area, wellbeing, includes weekly social sessions as well as activities including (not limited to!) gardening, stone-carving, drama or art groups.

What are the best parts of your job, and are there any lows?

My favourite part of my job is working with the clients; it’s great to see them develop confidence. One of my favourite things is when I can see their sense of pride in themselves when they achieve a goal or receive a certificate when they complete a course or training. During progression meetings I encourage clients to set themselves achievable goals based around what they would like to focus on.

I don’t think there are any bad parts! Some days can be more challenging than others but I appreciate being part of a supportive team and we make sure to look after each other.

What do you particularly enjoy about working at Launchpad and why?

Being part of a charity which makes a huge difference in my local community. The work we do is so varied, so I have learnt a lot from my colleagues across the organisation.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am an active person and enjoy open water swimming, which I do all year round. I’ll be going for a Boxing Day dip! I also took part in the Swim 68 challenge at Launchpad earlier in the year.

You can read about more of our staff and volunteers here.