Aneta Worku, Teacher, a.worku@barnsley.ac.uk
A former College student has praised the Access to Higher Education course that has allowed her to progress from foundation education to teaching at the College.
Aneta Worku – who is now one of our tutors in the Business and Management department – attended Barnsley College in 2015 with hopes that improving her business knowledge would further her career at Next PLC, where she was a Warehouse Operative.
She was enrolled on the Access to HE: Business course – a Level 3 qualification that is designed to provide academic support for those who do not possess the entry requirements for a university-level course.
After finishing this course, Aneta went on to study for a Foundation Degree in Business, whilst continuing to work full-time and raising two daughters. It was during this time that her tutors recognised her natural affinity for teaching.
She said: “One day in one of my classes, I presented a business idea. My amazing tutors talked to me and asked why I am not teaching. I thought returning to teaching was a great idea, as I was a German and Russian teacher in college about 20 years ago in Poland.
“The access to HE course gave me the confidence I needed to advance my career. I would recommend it to anyone who lacks confidence in themselves.”
“After completing my Foundation Degree in Business, a training provider offered me a job as a Business, Warehousing and ICT teacher, then in November 2020, I returned to Barnsley College to work as a Business and ICT tutor. Now I am ‘selling’ the knowledge gained in Barnsley College to the students I am teaching!
“The access to HE course gave me the confidence I needed to advance my career. I would recommend it to anyone who lacks confidence in themselves – particularly if they lack a formal education, or if they speak English as a second language. The best thing about it is that it isn’t patronising or too challenging: it allows students to build upon their existing skillset and progress their studies naturally.”
To hear more about Aneta’s journey, watch the full video below:
If you’re aged 19+ and looking to expand your skillset in preparation for a degree, we have Access to HE courses available for a range of subjects and sectors.
Whether you want to kick-start a career in Policing; embark on an academic adventure in Humanities; or, like Aneta, become a Business whizz, make Barnsley College your first step to success!
Course fees apply, but you may be eligible for reduced fees or a fully-funded place. Visit the Access to HE page to find out more.
Last updated: 1st July 2021
Originally posted on: 7th June 2021