Q&A with beauty therapy adult learner, Yolandi Botha

Community Care Worker Yolandi Botha decided to re-train in beauty therapy as an adult learner to help her to achieve her dreams of working as a massage therapist in a spa setting.

After working in the care sector for over 20 years and her children growing up, Yolandi took the big step to head back into the world of education to take her career in a completely different direction. Here, Yolandi talks about taking those all-important steps to make such a big change in her life.

Tell us about your career journey so far?

After leaving school, I decided to pursue a career in health and social care, and my first job was in a nursing home in Silverdale. I worked here for two years and I gained lots of life experiences. After my eldest son was born, I took up cleaning jobs at the cinema and then in local schools which fitted around having a young child. I even tried being a picker at a Supermarket, but that wasn't for me, so I turned to community care work and I then stayed in this sector for many years.

After working in health and social care for so long, what was your motivation to retrain?

I have always loved caring for people and the job worked well around my children, although the hours could be unsociable. Having had the chat with family members, I decided that I now had the support in place around the family to do something for me. I knew it would be difficult as I am still working full time, but it was either now or never.

With so many different adult courses on offer, why did you study at NSCG?

I sat down and looked through all of the courses on the college website and the Level 2 Certificate in Beauty Specialist Techniques stood out for me and something completely different.

How was the first day for you?

After enrolling on my first day, I did feel nervous, but after 10 minutes in the class, those nerves eased and I was excited to hear all about the course.

What key industry skills have you learnt?

I've already learnt lots of invaluable industry skills, and I'm really excited for the future. I've learnt lots about manicures, pedicures, brow treatments, waxing treatments and facials. Areas such as customer service, health and safety are covered in addition to the treatment side of things which have given me a rounded knowledge base for future study and employment.

What has been the biggest challenge of returning to education as an adult learner?

Confidence is a big part of it, but once you've made that decision, there is no need to worry.

You mentioned that you study around your care work? How do you co-ordinate college around this?

I still work full time and go into college on my days off so it's a busy week. It's hard sometimes with also being a mum, but my family support network is getting me through.

Looking back, what has been the most enjoyable part of the course?

I've enjoyed every single minute of my course. Learning so many new skills has been an eye-opener.

What's next for you?

I am excited to progress onto the Level 3 course as my goal is to work in massage therapy in a spa venue.

To any adults looking to study at NSCG, what would your advice be?

Believe in yourself most importantly. Once you've picked the course, don't look back. Ask for help and access any financial support if you can as this will help in funding your studies.

Find out more about adult courses at NSCG: Adult Courses.