After receiving a flyer at CIRCRE, an NHS mental health and addiction service where he was receiving support and volunteering, 51-year-old Tony Allan enrolled on the NPA in Mental Heath at the College’s Ferguslie Learning Centre. Ready for a new chapter, after personal challenges and caring for his parents, he wanted to continue supporting others and was motivated to develop his skills.
Speaking to Tony about his experience at Ferguslie, he said,
The welcoming and relaxed vibe at Ferguslie and the way the courses are delivered, makes it enjoyable learning and gaining new knowledge. The course gave me the confidence in my volunteer role to apply for a position within the Mental Health/Addiction sector. The knowledge gained has went a long way toward this next chapter of my recovery journey.
He strongly encourages others to consider studying at Ferguslie, “Have no hesitation. The centre has such a relaxed atmosphere… something for everyone. The ladies who steer the ship will do everything in their power to help you settle in.”
For Tony, the people make the place, he said,
The best thing about Ferguslie, apart from the choice of courses, is Katherine and the ladies at the learning centre – the beating heart of the centre.
He also gives heartfelt thanks to his tutor, “To Kate… a special lady I owe more than she will ever know.”
As he prepares to complete his course Tony has now secured a place on the Scottish Drugs Forum’s nine‑month trainee apprenticeship, working towards SVQ Level 2 in Care, beating a large field of applicants. He begins his new role on 1 June and says he feels “blessed” for the opportunity to move forward, offering his “heartfelt thanks and respect” to everyone who supported him.
