A Maidstone resident is on the way to achieving her dream career after receiving support from local landlord Golding Homes.
Golding Homes tenant Jodie dreamt of working as a teaching assistant in a Special Educational Needs school, but didn’t think it would ever happen, having worked in care settings for the last 18 years.
Golding Homes, based in Maidstone, has a dedicated team of employment advisors, who work closely with partners and organisations to provide employment support to local people.
Working with Learner2Mentor, Golding was able to offer residents an opportunity to sign up for a Level 1 in Preparing to Work in Schools course.
“I saw the course advertised in Golding Matters newsletter a few months ago,” said Jodie.
“I’ve always wanted to work as a Teaching Assistant at a SEN school, but having worked in health and social care for so many years, I didn’t think I would ever have the right training to be able to follow my dream.”
After Jodie saw the course advertised, she made an enquiry to Penny Lowe, an employment advisor at Golding Homes, for more information and to find out how to apply.
“At first I didn’t think I would be eligible, but within a week I found myself on the course,” she said.
“It was fantastic, and I had amazing support throughout it from my tutor. I completed the course, gaining a Level 1 qualification in Preparing to Work in Schools.
“After completing the course, Jenny from Golding’s employment team worked with me on creating a smart new CV and cover letter.
“I am delighted to say that I am now in the position to apply for my first job working as a Teaching Assistant within a SEN school.”
Golding also supported Jodie via its Personal Development Grant scheme, which provides financial help to residents in need so that they can improve their prospects.
Residents can apply for up to £200 toward the costs of training, learning tools, and new equipment.
“Jodie successfully applied for our Personal Development Grant and has used the money to buy a tablet and keyboard,” said Penny Lowe.
“These will help her considerably in completing a Level 3 Paediatric First Aid course that she is now studying for.
“We are delighted to have been able to provide this support to Jodie and to help her on her way to achieving her dream job.”
Jodie added: “I’m so grateful for this break and the opportunity that Golding Homes and Learner2Mentor have given me.
“Without this amazing opportunity I would not be on the path to achieving my dreams.”
Golding Homes owns and manages just under 8,000 homes in Kent.
Since its founding in 2004, Golding has completed over 1,850 new properties, provided homes for over 21,000 people in nine local authority areas, invested over £150m in large-scale regeneration projects, and supported residents through a £3.5m community investment programme.
Image: Jenny Fairweather and Penny Lowe, from Golding Homes’s Workwise Team
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