Thirty-seven-year old Anna Nowicka moved from Poland to Scotland 9 years ago. Working in a factory, she wanted to make a change; she wanted to do something that she enjoyed, something she felt worthwhile.

After securing a job in a care home, Anna decided to come to College to study Care Level 5 with ESOL, a course designed for students whose first language isn’t English wishing to enhance their skillset and increase employment opportunities within the Care sector.

Anna said “I wanted to come to college to enhance my skills, to learn about what and why we do things within the care home. Many people who I work with in the care home have dementia, so you need to be able to adapt the way you communicate with them.

The course covers a god mix of language and care skills.

As English is my second language many words that we use at work I had never even heard of as they aren’t words I would use in everyday life. The course has really helped with my vocabulary.

‘I enjoy the course very much. The lecturers are great and even if I don’t always understand they will adapt and put things in simpler term.

It’s also helped with my confidence at work as my skills have developed.

‘I’m very glad I made the decision to leave the factory and come to College. It’s a great place, everyone is very friendly and helpful, and I’d recommend anyone thinking about studying to choose West College Scotland.

‘I’m looking forward to returning next year to study Care Level 6.”