Richard MacSweeney - Centre Manager at Letchworth Outdoor Pool

“I have found the skills I learnt at NHC invaluable throughout my career.”

I started studying Leisure and Tourism at NHC in 1996 and finished two years later. I began working part time as a lifeguard at Letchworth Outdoor Swimming Pool towards the end of my course and it really helped me, both at work and college, to gain some relevant work experience.

Since then I have progressed to my current role of Centre Manager. This position requires me to think quickly and keep calm in an emergency situation, as well as requiring teamwork and leadership skills, all of which are skills I learnt at NHC. I also frequently use the interviewing techniques which we studied within my course at NHC when employing new staff.

If I could offer one piece of advice to a young person it would be to try and gain some relevant work experience or part-time work as it will help you both within your course and to get a foot in the door of industry you wish to work in.

If like Richard you are interested in studying sport and leisure or any other course at North Hertfordshire College please browse our courses or contact Central Enquiries on 01462 424242, enquiries@nhc.ac.uk.