Gracy's Story

How KCC Skills Bootcamps Helped Me Start My Career in Health and Social Care

Before joining the Skills Bootcamp, I felt stuck. I had left my job at a fast-food restaurant and, despite wanting to work in the care sector, all my applications were rejected. With only voluntary experience and little confidence in interviews, I began doubting myself and felt I had no clear direction.

I joined the Bootcamp because I wanted to understand the care sector properly, gain a recognised qualification, and rebuild my confidence. I also wanted to challenge the worries I had about not being good enough for a role in care.

"Skills Bootcamp helped me increase my confidence, secure a job, and overcome the anxiety I used to feel about working in care."

The Bootcamp gave me exactly what I needed. I learned essential skills such as person-centred care, safeguarding and health and safety, and the resources were detailed, accessible and easy to understand. The support from my tutor and the team made a huge difference, I could access all the materials and reach out to tutors through Teams, email or WhatsApp. This flexibility helped me stay engaged and motivated.

The employability support had a big impact too. My CV improved massively, and after updating it with the help of the team, I started receiving far more interview invitations than before. It was the first time I felt like employers were genuinely interested in me.

Since completing the Bootcamp, I've begun training as an SEN Tutor, supporting children with neurological differences who are out of school with their academic learning. I've also had several interviews arrange through the Skills Bootcamp team, opening up opportunities I never thought I would have.

The Bootcamp has boosted my confidence more than I expected. It helped me overcome the anxiety I used to feel about interviews and supported me in securing a role in a field I care about. It gave me the skills, knowledge and self-belief I needed to move forward.