Spotlight on Talent – Adam Liggins 

Having received learning support in primary and secondary school, Adam Liggins felt inspired to do the same for others by becoming a learning mentor himself.

“I’ve been in these students’ shoes, so I can empathise with that they might be going through, whether it’s a lack of concentration, confidence or another learning and college-related issue,” said Adam.

“I know how important it is to appreciate the magnitude of their situation.  What they are going through might seem like a small thing to us, but to them it could be a huge deal.”

Having joined Walsall College in October 2021, Adam was quick to notice that post-lockdown, some students were taking longer adjusting to being back in the classroom, as well as the wider college environment.

“Spending the majority of last year in remote learning, did have an impact on some students,” said Adam.  “As I’ve settled into my role and got to know individuals, I’ve encouraged them to open up about what’s on their mind and to be positive about their future.

“It’s giving them a clean slate from which to achieve and progress, in whichever way they need to.”

Prior to join the college, Adam had been working in retail.  He prefers the further education environment because of the opportunity to develop working relationships over a long-term period.  The regular, flexible hours suit him and he enjoys being part of what he describes as ‘one big college family’.

The peer and management support available, along with the career development and progression pathways within the college are also beneficial.

Film production graduate, Adam continued: “Former mentors here have gone into a role as a personal development tutor supporting students into the world of work, or into lecturing.  I’ll be considering both options further along the line.

“This is just such a great environment to work in,” he added.  “You can be yourself here a whole lot more and you’re learning new things all the time – either in your own capacity or from colleagues.

“To a large extent, there is a consistent, fluid approach to the learning support we offer but we also all have our own ways of engaging with and motivating students.  This is what makes us such a successful team to be part of.”