A day in the life of part-time student, Charlotte Cole…

A year ago I was sitting at my desk in an office re-evaluating my future having just been made redundant. I am 35 years of age, married with 3 young children. How would it be possible to retrain to do something else?

I approached the OICB, who were extremely helpful in advising the best possible route to take that would best suit my restrictions due to my family commitments. I work, study part-time and run my family home, but my determination has led me to a career that interests and fulfils me.

A year on I have successfully completed my NVQ Level 2 Beauty Therapy course and will shortly be entering my second year to study NVQ level 3 Advanced Beauty.

None of this would have been possible without my determination and the help, guidance and support received from the OICB staff.

I would urge anyone considering retraining, go for it! I did and I will never look back. It has opened an avenue of opportunities for me. I now have a part-time beauty job which I love! I am proof that it is possible to balance study, work and family in order to fulfil your ambitions.