Graduating will be one of the proudest moments of my life
Mark Grant, 59, from Ipswich, is a plumbing lecturer at Suffolk New College.
Mark said: “I’ve been at the college for just over two years. I came from industry, and as part of that I had to study a teacher training programme. I did this with the college over two years and studied on a certificate of education qualification via University of Suffolk.
“Prior to this role I worked as a plumber for over 40 years and it’s been a long time since I was involved in education.
“It was a bit of an eye opener studying in higher education. It was tough getting back into the academic side of things. I went straight from school into work.
“Doing projects and case studies was a big learning curve. But my ethos is that every day is a school day – and I would encourage others to do it. Getting into education is rewarding as you can pass on your knowledge.
“I’d say to others about embarking on a career change is that there is such a shortage of tradespeople going into education and although it has been a bit of an eye opener, this is the one job where I really enjoy coming to work. I wish I had done it earlier.”
In terms of graduating, Mark added: “If anyone said to me when I left school that one day I would be suited and booted for a university graduation ceremony, I would have laughed at them. But when I get on stage, it will be one of the proudest moments in my life. I’ve said to my family members that I might be the oldest graduate there, but you won’t forget this moment as I’m going to give you all a picture of me in my robes that you can put up in your living rooms.”
Doing this has inspired me to do more as it made me feel so empowered
Tracey Proctor, 57, from Kesgrave, is a clinical trainer at St Elizabeth Hospice and has worked there for 26 years. She has just completed a CertED thanks to the support of University of Suffolk and Suffolk New College.
Tracey said: “This was my first time back in education for a while. I did a diploma about 18 years ago. It was a bit daunting (starting out in higher education).
“I remember sitting in the car park the first day I started and having a fight or flight moment. But it was something that I wanted to prove to myself that I could do – and something I was capable of doing.
“The programme was two years in duration. There was a one-year option, but I work thirty hours a week and I have family commitments.
“Overall, I found it an incredibly positive experience. My tutors were out of this world and I’ve learnt so much from them. And the cohort I was with brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to lessons.
“I’d say to others looking to go into higher education or looking for a career change that you should go for it. I’m a big believer in growth mindset and that we can all improve – no matter your age or what experiences you have had in your life, there is always room for being able to grow within your life.
“In terms of passing the course, I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved, and I wouldn’t miss graduation for the world. It will be an incredibly proud moment. I feel I have achieved something and I have grown – not just academically – but as a person and as a teacher.
“Doing this has inspired me to do more as it made me feel so empowered.
“For now, I’m having a little break. I’ve got a new grandson, as well as his four-year-old brother – but it (further study) – is something I’m looking at in the future.”
You change, the world changes – so why not learn something new?
Ged Healy, 41, from Ipswich, is an electrical installation lecturer at Suffolk New College.
Ged said: “I left school, did office work, labouring, and my main aim when I was younger was to be rich and famous. Then at the age of 23, I became an adult learner and trained to be an electrician.
“I started work at the age of 25 and really enjoyed supporting apprentices. Then after about 15 years, I became a bit disillusioned as I wasn’t given the chance to support the apprentices as much as they needed.
“So, this opportunity came up in February 2023 to become a lecturer. My wife was really supportive and said I should take the job – I did – and I’ve not looked back.
“I’ve found it quite surreal (teaching). I never imagined I’d be in a room in front of 20 or so young people, imparting my knowledge to them. But now I feel comfortable and confident with it.
“I’ve had many highlights, including working with an apprentice called Jane Thorp who has won multiple competitions, and she will now be representing the college at WorldSkills.
“I also find it really rewarding working with students on the full-time course at Ipswich who are searching for an apprenticeship placement. I’m teaching people who are on the same pathway as me and when they get a job or pass their exam – I find it fulfilling.
“I’d say to anyone in industry who is considering a career change into education that they should do it. There can be a pay gap, but doing what I do is so rewarding – it’s such a worthwhile job.
In terms of studying on a teacher training course with the college, thanks to the support ofthe University of Suffolk, Ged said: “I was daunted and excited by doing a university course. I had cousins who went to university, but all my immediate family are tradespeople. But I like learning. University is not the same as at school – it’s been enjoyable.
It’s never too late to learn. You change, the world changes – so why not learn something?
“I’ve had fantastic support from my family and colleagues who have got me through some shaky moments.
“And when I graduate, I will feel overwhelmed by it. But now I can say I’m a qualified teacher.”