A Blackburn learner has secured a new role in childcare after completing two courses with PHX Training.
When Susan Loynds walked through the doors of PHX Training Blackburn, she arrived with both personal and professional ambitions: to deepen her understanding of childcare to support her child with learning needs, and to gain qualifications to take the next step in her career.
Before joining PHX Training, Susan had undertaken voluntary support work in a school setting, but had struggled to translate that experience into paid employment.
Determined to build a career supporting children, Susan enrolled on the Level 2 Introducing Caring for Children course. As a parent of a child with learning needs, she saw the course as an opportunity to strengthen both her professional knowledge and personal understanding. Enjoying the experience so much, she went on to complete a second course, Level 2 Understanding Autism.
While studying, Susan balanced her learning alongside caring responsibilities for her brother and ongoing personal commitments. Despite these challenges, she completed both courses on time and to an excellent standard.
Throughout her learning journey, Susan’s confidence grew significantly, something recognised by her tutor, Charlotte.
“She was polite, punctual and a pleasure to teach,” said Charlotte. “Susan was highly engaged with the subjects, always keen to receive feedback and clearly focused on building a future in childcare.”
As a mature learner returning to education, Susan had found securing interviews a challenge. With support from PHX Training, including guidance, encouragement and a professional reference from Charlotte, she was able to take the next step.
Susan praised the support she received, describing Charlotte as someone who “consistently went above and beyond to help anyone in her courses”, creating a learning environment that was “happy, friendly and encouraging”.
That support has now helped Susan achieve her goal. She has since secured a role as a Bank Nursery Practitioner at a local school, turning her passion for supporting children into a new career.
Reflecting on her journey, Susan said: “Gaining these qualifications has given me a much better opportunity to achieve this.”
Susan later returned to PHX Training not only to collect her certificates but to personally thank Charlotte with a card and gift, a fitting reflection of the impact her learning journey has had.
PHX Training is a leading training provider that offers a range of training and vocational courses, including basic English and maths and IT skills, up to specific sector qualifications in health and social care, warehousing and business administration.
It also supports people back into work by building training plans and careers advice, free access to computers and printers, CV writing workshops and interview techniques, as well as access to local employers who are recruiting.
PHX has training centres in Carlisle, Barrow, Blackpool, Blackburn, Workington, Morecambe and Preston.
To find out about the full range of support on offer, contact 01228 210 317 or visit www.phxtraining.co.uk.