North Hertfordshire College is proud to be home to an Ofsted-rated Outstanding provision for learners with additional needs, including our Springboard campuses in Letchworth and Watford. These programmes in particular are designed to help learners with a diagnosis or traits of Autism and associated mental health needs to develop their confidence and skills to reach their goals and live independently. It’s always a delight to see our students grow and develop over the course of their studies – take Cas, for example!
Cas has been working towards his employability and enterprise qualification at Springboard, and he’s now preparing to take his next steps towards the future. We caught up with Cas to find out more about his plans for after his course:
What has been the most interesting part of your course?
“I would say the most interesting part of the course is being able to develop my skills throughout my lessons. All the staff are incredibly supportive, and I would say just going to lessons brings me enjoyment as I can feel myself changing and learning to overcome my struggles every day.
“I was surprised by how relaxed I feel during lessons – I always used to be tense when I was in class, even just in a room by myself in school, but when I am in Springboard I do not feel any of that and feel quite at peace and calm.”
How has Springboard helped you to plan for your future?
“Springboard has encouraged me to explore my interests – I originally wanted to start a business, and through developing that idea on my course I have found I actually have other interests I want to pursue more. The staff now ask me questions about that and like to hear about what I have planned.
“I did a work placement with a dog grooming company called Pampered Pets as part of my course and, even though I do not want to become a dog groomer, I found that I benefitted a lot from the experience. I learned how to be patient and how to adapt to being in a different place quickly. I also strengthened my commitment skills. This work experience gave me the confidence to be able to go out looking for my own jobs, and I now have two part-time roles.”
What are your next steps after you finish your Springboard course?
“I am looking to move on to studying at college and then keep on studying and progressing in my education. Thinking back to this time last year, I would never have dreamt of this as an option, as I would not have thought it was possible for me to accomplish everything that I have.”
Where do you hope to be in five years’ time?
“Hopefully, I will still be in education, studying for my chosen career.”
What would you say to someone who is thinking of studying at NHC or Springboard?
“I would say to go for it. For me, it was such a good opportunity and I feel I have been able to flourish at Springboard in ways that mean that, when I look back at who I was before starting here, that person feels almost unrecognisable.”
We are delighted with Cas’ success and wish them all the best for the future!
If you’re interested in finding out about North Hertfordshire College’s Springboard programmes, check out our Springboard page. With NHC, you can stay close to home and build the skills and confidence to go far in your future.