I wanted to work in FE from a young age. Now, here I am.

My job isn’t just about helping students learn, it’s helping them to become confident individuals who are ready to take on the world.

As a learning and support officer, no two days are the same. Many of the students have learning disabilities and some struggle with issues such as anxiety. This can make even the smallest task seem like a mountain. I have to build a level of trust with each student so that they will work with me and come to me when they’re feeling overwhelmed and need additional support.

Getting to know students as individuals is part of the job. I spend a lot of time with them inside and outside of the classroom; we share jokes and they see me as someone who’s there for them.

Don’t get me wrong, my job can be very challenging. I have to take every detail into consideration when it comes to my students, including things that others wouldn’t give a second thought to, such as the environment students learn in. Lighting, sounds and surroundings can play a key role in how students feel and can impact how they learn.

Watching individuals who have struggled at college start to flourish is such a rewarding experience and makes college such a special place. College is for everyone, no matter what their situation or individual challenges, we help people get the skills they need to get the most out of their lives.

Haley Bowater is learning support officer at Gateshead College, where she was also a former student