At Fresh Futures, we believe that investing in people creates opportunities not only for personal growth but also for lasting impact within our communities. Few stories demonstrate this better than Tamara’s remarkable journey from volunteer to qualified tutor.
Recently, Tamara achieved a Distinction in her Level 5 Teaching and Learning Skills Diploma through the apprenticeship route – an outstanding accomplishment that celebrates years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting young people.
What makes this achievement even more special is where her journey began.
It Started with 20 Hours
Tamara first came to Fresh Futures through a course at The Big House, delivered as part of our Home Start scheme. As part of a Level 2 qualification in Teaching Children with SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) Needs, funded by Fresh Futures, she was required to complete 20 hours of volunteering.
Those 20 hours took place at Brian Jackson College, and what was intended to be a short-term placement quickly became something much more meaningful.
As Tamara often says with a smile:
“I was only supposed to be here for 20 hours.”
Seven years later, she remains an invaluable member of the team.
A Journey of Growth
Since joining Brian Jackson College, Tamara has continually developed her skills and expertise, progressing through a number of roles along the way.
Starting as a Learning Behaviour Support Worker, she later became a Pastoral Worker before progressing to her current position as a qualified Functional Skills Tutor.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a genuine passion for helping young people with SEMH needs overcome barriers to learning, build confidence, and achieve positive outcomes.
Her latest qualification, funded and supported by Fresh Futures, represents another important milestone in a journey defined by perseverance, professional growth, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Making a Difference
While Tamara’s academic achievement is certainly something to celebrate, the true impact of her journey can be seen in the lives of the young people she supports every day.
Her dedication to education, pastoral support, and student development has helped countless learners develop the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to move forward in their own lives.
Reflecting on her time at Brian Jackson College, Tamara said:
“I am proud that my journey at Brian Jackson College has been shaped by a fantastic team whose support has enabled me to make a positive difference in the lives of young people with SEMH needs, while also having a profoundly positive impact on my own life and personal growth.”
Celebrating Homegrown Talent
Tamara’s story perfectly embodies what is possible when people are given opportunities to learn, develop, and thrive.
From a volunteer placement undertaken to complete a course requirement, to becoming a qualified tutor with a Distinction at Level 5, her journey is an inspiring example of determination, ambition, and the power of supportive environments.
We are incredibly proud of all that Tamara has accomplished and grateful for the positive impact she continues to make at Brian Jackson College and across Fresh Futures.
Congratulations, Tamara. This achievement is thoroughly deserved, and we’re excited to see where your journey takes you next. 🎉🌟
