Learner Name: Julia Suthers
Course Type: Rail Maintenance
Background Barriers & Aims
I was on Universal Credit for about three years as I struggled with my mental health due to a past trauma. During that time, anxiety kept me from leaving the house.
I also have dyslexia, and I was initially worried about how I would manage the classwork. However, during the course, I discovered that my dyslexia wasn’t as severe as I had feared. I even found myself helping a young man sitting next to me, whose dyslexia was more severe. He had been in prison, and I was glad to support him.
I quickly became the one who wasn’t afraid to ask questions when I didn’t understand something. This encouraged others in the class to speak up as well, helping us all feel less nervous and more confident together.
Actions and Activities Undertaken
I have achieved:
Diploma in Rail Engineering Track Maintenance and a Certificate in Rail Engineering Underpinning Knowledge.
Safety Critical Training.
Outcomes and Results
I passed Level 2 Rail Maintenance with flying colours. I am working shifts. I started working with ISS civil work (lighting) but have since moved onto permanent track work. I am due to change jobs again soon. I will be working for SWGR. They will be putting me through a few courses so I can work alone. The position is called “Possession of the railway”. It is a small promotion with an increase in pay.
Learners Feedback
Joining the course, I felt scared and anxious. I was the only female on the course which worried me. I was soon made to feel welcome, safe and protected by my colleagues and the trainer of the course. I always felt supported by the trainer and was treated with respect. I always felt like I had the backup I needed which helped me continue on the course despite other obstacles. It took me 2.5 hours of travel every day which was hard. Also no encouragement from my job centre who advised me to give the course up after 2 weeks of attending.
The course has changed my life around. I have met so many new people on my shifts and I am enjoying my new life. Thank you for all your support.
Our trainer Charles was brilliant. I believe Charles went over and above and I say this because the guy who took us for our SCT was very impressed with our knowledge and skills.
