North Hertfordshire College’s Springboard provision is designed to support learners with Autism and associated emotional, behavioural and mental health needsto prepare for adulthood. Along the way, our amazing team are on hand to help our learners to reach their goals – like Sam Tillbrook, one of our Course Team Leaders at our Watford site!
Sam is passionate about supporting students to success and helping them throughout their time with Springboard, having been inspired by the team’s work in the past.
Find out more about Sam’s Springboard journey:
What inspired you to start a career with Springboard?
“My younger brother attended Springboard in 2016, and the things he was able to achieve after just one year there was so impressive. I was able to see his whole life change as a result of Springboard’s support, and it opened my eyes to the fact that I could play a part in similar journeys for other students like my brother.
“Before joining the Springboard team, I was studying a Sports Coaching, Fitness and Development course. I was asked by the manager of Springboard at the time to see if I could support two students with travel training as they’d seen how I had supported my brother in a similar way. I took this opportunity, which then led to a position as a Learning Support Assistant within the classroom.”
How has your role progressed since you first joined the Springboard team?
“I worked as a Learning Support Assistant for a couple of years and had the chance to cover some sessions and I loved it. I knew then that I wanted to gain a teaching qualification with the College and hopefully have the opportunity to become a Course Team Leader at some stage in the future. Shortly after completing my qualification, a position came up – it was perfect timing!
“Three years after that, I spent a short time in the Springboard Manager position. I learnt a lot from this time, and I was able to develop my leadership skills and confidence. I then moved back into a Course Team Leader role when it came up again, which brings us up to now. I’m really passionate about this role and enjoy it thoroughly.”
What do you think makes Springboard stand out?
“Our course is set up in such a unique way. The course aims to build confidence, independence, and social skills in our learners to prepare them for adulthood. At Springboard, we approach every learner as an individual and understand that no two students learn in the same way. We spend time finding the best ways of helping everyone to work towards their goals and supporting them in the best way we can.”
Looking back at your time with Springboard so far, what has been one of your highlights?
“I really enjoy our ‘Celebrating Success’ event we organise for our students every summer. The event is the perfect opportunity for our staff and students to share their highlights from the year and to reflect on everything they’ve achieved. It’s always such a nice occasion and a chance to look back at all the great things we’ve been up to throughout the year.”
If you could speak to someone who is thinking of joining a Springboard course, what would you say to them?
“My advice to prospective students is to give everything a go. It may be out of your comfort zone or something completely new, but it’s always better to try things out before giving up.”
Work with the Hart Learning Group
We think all jobs in education are some of the most important and fulfilling jobs in the world – helping people realise their potential and build a life for themselves; helping businesses to grow and improve; and helping to build strong, vibrant communities.
If you share our passion, we want to hear from you – check out our available vacancies and come and join the team!