Adult and Higher Education
Adult learner Sharon is a cut above the rest
A MOTHER of three and former supermarket checkout assistant has left behind the world of retail and is pursuing her dream of becoming a hairdresser.
Sharon, 36 from Horwich, is completing Hairdressing NVQ Level 3 at Bolton College’s learning centre in Westhoughton, having been unfulfilled by her job at ASDA and deciding to follow her life long ambition of becoming a hairdresser.
Sharon said: “I have always wanted to be a hairdresser since I was at school, but I suffer with Fibromyalgia (chronic muscle pain) in my back which I thought would be made worse by hairdressing. Therefore, when I left school I settled for various jobs at ASDA and Tesco, but I still suffered with my back, so in 2006 when all my children were at school, I decided it was time to pursue my dream.”
Sharon’s first stop was Bolton College, where the popularity of the hairdressing offer meant all the courses were full. However, Sharon was advised to enrol on the Introduction to Hairdressing evening class, where she discovered new friends and a flair for cutting hair. Having finished the course, Sharon went on to achieve the Hairdressing Level 2 Diploma and NVQ Level 2, and is due to complete the NVQ Level 3 in June.
Sharon continued: “I have enjoyed every minute of my courses, and I would recommend the College to anyone who has a dream career they have yet to achieve.
“The tutors at Bolton College have supported me through my back problems and encouraged my progression. I was really nervous about going back into education – I thought I would be in a class of teenagers, but the reality was that our group was a mixture of all ages and everyone got on really well. I have made some great friends on the courses.”
Sharon is hoping to continue with her education journey, but is taking a break over the summer as she continues to battle with her back problems.
Jill Shovelton, Hairdressing Level 3 coordinator and Sharon’s tutor, said: “Sharon is a fantastic student who is keen to progress and make the most of what College has to offer. Sharon’s determination and willingness to learn has ensured her progression through College, from an evening class to NVQ Level 3 standard.
“There are lots of opportunities for adult learners wanting to get back into education and Sharon is a great example of how further education can help develop confidence and change lives.”