Learning new skills

Faced with bleak work prospects, Steven overcame dyslexia to build a rewarding new career.

“I was working as a kitchen fitter, a job that was neither reliable nor particularly fulfilling. I am dyslexic and my local Disability Employment Advisor at Jobcentre Plus suggested that I retrain. An opportunity arose to join the Media Techniques course at the College.

It was hard work but fascinating, I learnt a lot about film, TV and sound. When I qualified, I asked the Job Club leader what he thought about becoming self-employed – he said ‘great idea’ and sent me off with a draft business plan to fill in!

Once I had looked at the opportunities and costings I established myself doing wedding videos. My business has gone from strength to strength and I am now expanding into family portrait photography. I can truly say that the College changed my life, it gave me the confidence to set up in business which I am enjoying very much.”