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When Stephanie moved from Kenya to the UK, she brought with her not only professional experience in health and social care but also an unshakable desire to grow.
Today, she’s not just progressing in her own career – she’s chosen to give someone else the same opportunity she had by paying forward her course refund.
“Care work is unpredictable – just like people, and that’s what I love about it”
Stephanie works as a live-in carer in the UK, where no two days are ever the same. “People are more versatile than systems,” she says with a smile. “You never get bored. One day is never going to be the same as the next.”
After settling into her new life in the UK, Stephanie realised that experience alone wasn’t enough. “A qualification is the bare minimum most employers are looking for,” she explains. “I came in last year and figured the best way to navigate this country is to keep reading and informing yourself.”
That’s when she found the Health & Social Care RQF and Dementia Care Level 3 Diploma.
The Search for a Practical, Career-Ready Course
Like many adult learners, Stephanie did her research. “I looked at a lot of institutions online. But Association of Learning had specific units I really needed – especially the one on communication. I work with service users who have challenges in that area, so I needed skills I could apply immediately, not just in the future.”
The bundled courses, dementia focus, and financial incentives all helped her make the leap. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
“I submitted my first unit seven times. But Andrew, my tutor, never gave up on me.”
Adjusting to a new learning system was tough. “In Kenya, we learn differently,” she recalls. “I was answering the questions, but not in the way required. Andrew helped me understand the UK’s expectations. After that, everything became easier. I saw real growth from my first assignment to my twentieth.”
Stephanie also had to work around the unpredictable demands of being a live-in carer. “Andrew was flexible and accommodating. That made all the difference.”
Eyes on the Future: “I want to lead, but never stop caring.”
Stephanie isn’t planning to leave hands-on care anytime soon. “In three years, I want to be in a managerial role. But I still want to do practical care work, especially in challenging areas like communication difficulties. That’s where I feel I make the most difference.”
Pay it Forward: Stephanie’s Course Refund Could Be Yours
Perhaps most inspiring of all, Stephanie decided not to accept her course refund. “It was worth every penny. I wouldn’t take it back, even if you asked me to.” Instead, she asked Association of Learning to give that money to someone else – someone who, like her, is ready to grow, learn, and make a difference.
For a limited time, you can apply to receive Stephanie’s paid-forward course refund as a scholarship towards your own Health & Social Care qualification.
Whether you’re starting fresh in the New Year or looking to progress in your career, Stephanie’s story is a reminder that growth is possible – and sometimes, someone else’s generosity can light the way.
0333 344 2126