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Empowering Success

In July 2023, Gemma embarked on a transformative educational journey, guided by her support worker, Jennifer, and facilitated by Sol. Gemma’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of tailored education and support services.

Course Selection and Initial Challenges

Gemma’s initial visit aimed to explore course options, where she expressed interest in the level 3 diploma in beauty therapy. However, her journey was not without hurdles. Battling anxiety and a lack of confidence, Gemma faced difficulties during the English and maths initial assessments, particularly due to her dyslexia. Undeterred, Gemma persisted, attempting the English assessment thrice, fueled by a determination to showcase her capabilities.

Recognizing the importance of addressing Gemma’s mathematical challenges, Sol introduced the Managing Money course alongside her beauty therapy program. This decision proved pivotal, aligning with Gemma’s ambition to establish her own beauty services business.

Financial Empowerment through the Managing Money Course

Over the past three months of participating in the Managing Money course, Gemma’s tutor, Andy, witnessed a remarkable transformation. Gemma, once unsure about handling finances, can now navigate percentages for VAT, manage her finances effectively, calculate change accurately, and set fair prices for her future beauty services. Gemma’s newfound financial skills promise a secure foundation for her envisioned self-employment.

Gemma is going above and beyond in building clients for herself while training, she has done some pamper parties for friends and family and she has taken it upon herself to design her own consultation cards from the knowledge she has gained in class. She asked me to check over them, everything included was correct, which is a testament to how Gemma has taken all her classroom knowledge on board and is now applying this to start creating her career in the beauty industry. I am beyond proud of what Gemma has achieved so for, it is a privilege to see her grow in her confidence and skills and can’t wait to see the rest of her learning journey with us.” 

Nadia Brown, Vocational Tutor at Pathway SkillsZone Burslem

Beauty Mastery and Academic Excellence

Gemma’s proficiency in beauty therapy has been nothing short of exceptional. According to her beauty tutor, Nadia, Gemma started with apprehension but has evolved into an exemplary student. Excelling in both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, Gemma consistently outpaces her peers in assignments, serving as a motivational force within the class.

Despite her dyslexia, Gemma has found innovative ways to leverage her intelligence and knowledge. She not only completes assignments well ahead of schedule but also extends her support to fellow learners with dyslexia, sharing strategies for academic success. Gemma’s success extends beyond academics; she has practically completed two facial assessments with confidence, delivering professional treatments while demonstrating exceptional client care.

Building a Career and Inspiring Others

Gemma’s ambition reaches beyond the classroom. Proactively building her clientele while still in training, she has organized pamper parties for friends and family. Demonstrating initiative and creativity, Gemma designed her consultation cards using the knowledge gained in class, ensuring accuracy and professionalism.

Nadia expresses immense pride in Gemma’s achievements, highlighting the privilege of witnessing her growth in confidence and skills. As Gemma’s learning journey continues, her story stands as a beacon of inspiration for others, showcasing the transformative power of education, support, and personal determination.